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Not many athletic disciplines can captivate an audience through an extended period of ceremony before the opening contest is even contested.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a small clay ring - virtually unchanged for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Experience the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features four dozen top-tier sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been completely reimagined, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the ring.

Ancient Traditions Meet Current Innovations

It is here the athletes, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to expel evil spirits, and where they applaud to get the attention of the divine beings.

Above all this traditional ritual, a enormous circular monitor - which wouldn't look out of place at an NBA match - offers the crowd all the data and video they could want.

Global Fans Embrace Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "chance online clip" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of specialized online content for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to train, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Another Perspective

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a conventional method: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We saw it as a very touristy activity, but we actually came to adore the sport," says Julia.

"After that, we tried to find communities, information, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Special Event

Traveling to Asia is typically the sole method to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This London competition marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the first time was in over three decades ago.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of securing tickets, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

Live Observation

For many attendees, the current event represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Watching nearby, you get a understanding of quickness and the power which you can't experience on TV," notes one fan. "Their size is impressive."

The Competition

To achieve victory, one competitor needs to force his opponent out of the ring or to the floor using physical force.

The primary group use one of pair of techniques to achieve this, often in moments - thrusting, or grappling.

Either way, the noise of the two athletes crashing together in the initial contact of the match echoes around the hall.

Prime Locations

The cushions right next to the dohyō are of course highly prized - but also, a bit risky.

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations feel relieved.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the wrestlers is one of the primary elements most people think of when they contemplate wrestling.

The facility's operators revealed they "had to source and acquire reinforced furniture which can take up to 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its successful competitions - is not without its troubles behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a professional athlete doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its following among the younger generation is also being competed with by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's declining population will not help.

International Network

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that goes with sumo is especially significant," fan Sian says. "Now, seeing it in person, you feel like you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the intensity "made it so incredible" - as did meeting the fellow enthusiasts.

"Emerging from a highly specialized online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to converse with other people who are just as into this as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."