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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of tradition before the initial score is even determined.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a traditional dohyō - mostly preserved for hundreds of years - succeeded in doing so.

Discover the Grand Sumo Tournament

This week-long competition at the Royal Albert Hall features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to ancient times.

London's renowned auditorium has been completely reimagined, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the competition area.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Current Innovations

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo professionals, perform their leg stomps to banish evil spirits, and where they clap to summon the deities.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a giant, revolving LED screen - that would fit perfectly at an American basketball game - offers the spectators all the statistics and footage they could want.

International Enthusiasts Find Sumo

For Sian Spencer, it was a "chance online clip" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms for rikishi houses, where wrestlers live and train, starting their day early to train, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of bulking up.

Hailing from Scotland, Another Perspective

Another couple discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We considered it a typical visitor experience, but we actually came to adore the sport," says Julia.

"From there on, we tried to find communities, information, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Special Event

Visiting the homeland is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

This current tournament marks only the second time the tournament has visited the city - the first time was in over three decades ago.

Even going to Japan isn't certain of getting a seat, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

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

"Observing directly, you get a feeling of velocity and the force which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their size is impressive."

The Matches

To achieve victory, one rikishi needs to move the other man off the clay or to the surface using brute strength.

The most use one of dual approaches to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - pushing, or wrestling.

Either way, the impact of the two wrestlers colliding in the first moment of the match reverberates around the hall.

Prime Locations

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

During one particular match, a large wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Internal Challenges

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

The venue's management revealed they "were required to locate and purchase additional seating 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 demanding existence of a professional athlete doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its appeal among youth in Japan is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's falling birthrate will create further complications.

Global Community

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Witnessing these custom and formality that accompanies sumo is especially significant," fan Sian says. "Today, watching it live, you sense that you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the drama "produced unforgettable moments" - as did encountering the other fans.

"Emerging from a very niche online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans in person and being able to speak to other people who are just as into this as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."