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Not many athletic disciplines can keep viewers enthralled through three-quarters of an hour of ritual before the first point is even decided.

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

Discover the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This five-day event at the Royal Albert Hall features 40 of the very best rikishi showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to ancient times.

London's renowned auditorium has been utterly transformed, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the dohyō.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to banish negative energies, and where they strike their hands to summon the deities.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a giant, revolving LED screen - that appears natural at an NBA match - offers the spectators all the statistics and footage they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

For Sian Spencer, 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 train, followed by a high protein stew and then an midday rest - all in the service of bulking up.

Hailing from Scotland, Alternative View

Another couple discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We considered it a very touristy activity, but we actually ended up loving the sport," notes the enthusiast.

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

Rare Opportunity

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

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

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of obtaining admission, with the past period seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

For multiple fans, the current event represents the first time they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you can't experience on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Competition

To succeed, one wrestler needs to force his opponent out of the ring or to the surface using raw power.

The most use one of dual approaches to achieve this, often in instantaneous actions - thrusting, or clenching.

Either way, the sound of the two athletes colliding in the initial contact of the match resounds around the venue.

Premium Seating

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

During one specific contest, a tall wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats experience comfort.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the primary elements most people consider when they consider the sport.

The hall's organizers revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can support 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its popular tournaments - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

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

Its popularity among the younger generation is also being competed with by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's declining population will present additional challenges.

Global Community

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that goes with sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Now, seeing it live, you sense that you are more part of it."

For other dedicated followers, the drama "produced unforgettable moments" - as did meeting the other fans.

"Getting out of a highly specialized online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans directly and being able to chat with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."