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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through an extended period of tradition before the first point is even decided.

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

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This five-day event at the Royal Albert Hall features 40 of the very best rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to the first century BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been totally redesigned, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the dohyō.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Current Innovations

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

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - that would fit perfectly at an American basketball game - offers the crowd all the stats and replays they could want.

International Enthusiasts Embrace Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "chance online clip" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was quickly followed by the discovery of focused video platforms for rikishi houses, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to train, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a established path: a trip to Japan six years ago.

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

"From there on, we tried to locate groups, materials, just to expand our knowledge about it," adds Cezar.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is generally the primary approach to see a elite competition.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has appeared in the capital - the first time was in over three decades ago.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

First-Hand Experience

For many attendees, the UK competition represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it exceeds expectations.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the power which you won't feel on TV," notes one fan. "They are so big."

The Competition

To achieve victory, one competitor needs to force his opponent from the dohyō or to the floor using physical force.

The most use one of dual approaches to achieve this, often in moments - shoving, or grappling.

Either way, the impact of the two wrestlers meeting in the first moment of the match echoes around the hall.

Premium Seating

The positions right next to the dohyō are of course highly prized - but also, potentially hazardous.

During one particular match, a tall wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the size of the rikishi is one of the first things most people consider when they contemplate wrestling.

The venue's management revealed they "needed to find and purchase additional seating which can support 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its sell-out events - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

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

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being competed with by other sports, while Japan's decreasing numbers will create further complications.

International Network

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Witnessing these ritual and ceremony that accompanies sumo is quite special," one enthusiast notes. "Today, watching it in person, you feel like you are more engaged."

For other dedicated followers, the excitement "created amazing experiences" - as did meeting the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a highly specialized online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to speak to other people who are just as into this as we are - it was worth every penny."