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Few sports can captivate an audience through an extended period of tradition before the initial score is even contested.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a compact earthen circle - largely unaltered for centuries - succeeded in doing so.

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's historic performance space has been utterly transformed, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the competition area.

Ancient Traditions Meet Current Innovations

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their foot stomping to drive away evil spirits, and where they clap to attract the gods.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a massive rotating display - that appears natural at an NBA match - offers the audience all the statistics and footage they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "random video" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for rikishi houses, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an daytime sleep - all in the effort toward bulking up.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a established path: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We saw it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually ended up loving the sport," says Julia.

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

Special Event

Traveling to Asia is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

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

Even going to Japan isn't certain of obtaining admission, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the UK competition represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it lives up to the hype.

"Watching nearby, 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 win the match, one rikishi needs to push another off the clay or to the ground using raw power.

The primary group use one of dual approaches to succeed in this, often in instantaneous actions - thrusting, or grappling.

Either way, the impact of the two athletes crashing together in the first moment of the match reverberates around the venue.

Premium Seating

The cushions right next to the ring are of course greatly valued - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one specific contest, a 191cm wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats breathe a sigh of relief.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the size of the rikishi is one of the first things most people imagine when they think of sumo.

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and acquire reinforced furniture which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Potential Issues

Perhaps the strict life of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its following among young Japanese is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's declining population will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that is part of sumo is particularly meaningful," fan Sian says. "Today, watching it in person, you experience being you are more involved."

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

"Emerging from a particularly focused online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans in person and being able to speak to other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."