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Only a handful of competitions can captivate an audience through 45 minutes of ceremony before the initial score is even determined.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a compact earthen circle - virtually unchanged for generations - managed to do just that.

Welcome to the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This multi-day tournament at the Royal Albert Hall features four dozen top-tier rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to ancient times.

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Current Innovations

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo professionals, perform their shiko exercises to drive away negative energies, and where they applaud 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 audience all the data and video they could want.

Worldwide Followers Find Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "random video" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for rikishi houses, where competitors stay and exercise, rising before dawn to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward bulking up.

From Edinburgh, Alternative View

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We approached it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually ended up loving the sport," explains the fan.

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, resources, just to expand our knowledge about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even visiting the country isn't certain of getting a seat, with the past period seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For numerous spectators, the current event represents the premier chance they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the strength which you don't get on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "They are so big."

The Competition

To succeed, one competitor needs to push another from the dohyō or to the floor using raw power.

The most use one of two styles to succeed in this, often in moments - pushing, or wrestling.

Either way, the noise of the two wrestlers colliding in the opening second of the match resounds around the auditorium.

Premium Seating

The cushions right next to the competition area are of course highly prized - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one specific contest, a large wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the stature of the wrestlers is one of the initial aspects most people think of when they think of sumo.

The facility's operators revealed they "were required to locate and buy new chairs which can support 200kg in weight."

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

Potential Issues

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

Its appeal among the younger generation is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's decreasing numbers will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these custom and formality that is part of sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it directly, you sense that you are more involved."

For other enthusiastic fans, the excitement "made it so incredible" - as did encountering the like-minded individuals.

"Leaving a highly specialized online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans directly and being able to converse with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."