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Not many athletic disciplines can keep viewers enthralled through 45 minutes of ritual before the first point is even contested.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - virtually unchanged for generations - managed to do just that.

Experience the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This multi-day tournament at the Royal Albert Hall features four dozen top-tier sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to ancient times.

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

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the competitors, known as sumo professionals, perform their foot stomping to banish dark forces, and where they strike their hands to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - that appears natural at an NBA match - offers the crowd all the data and video they could want.

International Enthusiasts Discover Sumo

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

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of specialized online content for rikishi houses, where competitors stay and exercise, waking up early to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an afternoon nap - all in the service of gaining weight.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

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

"We approached it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually developed passion for the sport," says Julia.

"From there on, we tried to discover networks, information, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Rare Opportunity

Visiting the homeland is generally the primary approach to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This week's event marks only the second instance the tournament has appeared in the capital - the first time was in the early nineties.

Even traveling to Asia isn't a guarantee of getting a seat, with the past period seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the UK competition represents the premier chance they have watched sumo in person - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Watching nearby, you get a feeling of velocity and the strength which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Matches

To succeed, one wrestler needs to push another off the clay or to the surface using raw power.

The primary group use one of two styles to succeed in this, often in instantaneous actions - shoving, or clenching.

Either way, the sound of the two wrestlers colliding in the first moment of the match echoes around the auditorium.

Prime Locations

The positions right next to the competition area are of course greatly valued - but also, a bit risky.

During one recent bout, a large wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions feel relieved.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the rikishi is one of the primary elements most people consider when they think of sumo.

The hall's organizers revealed they "were required to locate and acquire reinforced furniture which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Future Challenges

Perhaps the strict life of a rikishi doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its following among young Japanese is also being competed with by other sports, while Japan's falling birthrate will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the ritual and ceremony that goes with sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it in person, you sense that you are more involved."

For other dedicated followers, the drama "made it so incredible" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a particularly focused online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to converse with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."