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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through an extended period of ceremony before the first point is even determined.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a compact earthen circle - largely unaltered for centuries - managed to do just that.

Discover the Grand Sumo Tournament

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

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to drive away evil spirits, and where they clap to attract the divine beings.

Above all this traditional ritual, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the spectators all the statistics and footage they could want.

Global Fans Find Sumo

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

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of focused video platforms for training facilities, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the pursuit of increasing mass.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

Another couple discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We approached it as a very touristy activity, but we actually came to adore the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"After that, we tried to discover networks, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," adds Cezar.

Special Event

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

This London competition marks only the second occasion the tournament has appeared in the capital - the first time was in over three decades ago.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of obtaining admission, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

First-Hand Experience

For multiple fans, the current event represents the first time they have watched sumo in person - and it exceeds expectations.

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

The Matches

To win the match, one competitor needs to force his opponent off the clay or to the ground using physical force.

The majority use one of two styles to achieve this, often in split seconds - shoving, or wrestling.

Either way, the noise of the two wrestlers crashing together in the first moment of the match resounds around the venue.

Prime Locations

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

During one particular match, a 191cm wrestler went plummeting into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

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

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can take up to 200kg in weight."

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

Coming Obstacles

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

Its popularity among young Japanese is also being threatened by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Seeing all this ritual and ceremony that accompanies sumo is quite special," fan Sian says. "Now, seeing it in person, you experience being you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the intensity "produced unforgettable moments" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Emerging from a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was completely valuable."