There's Nothing Like Experiencing the Historic London Venue Vibrate When Sumo Wrestlers Clash

Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of tradition before the opening contest is even decided.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for hundreds of years - accomplished exactly that.

Discover the Grand Sumo Tournament

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

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

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo professionals, perform their foot stomping to expel dark forces, and where they clap to summon the deities.

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

Global Fans Find Sumo

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

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, starting their day early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a established path: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We approached it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually came to adore the sport," says Julia.

"Subsequently, we tried to discover networks, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Unique Chance

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 come to London - the previous visit was in over three decades ago.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of obtaining admission, with current times seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

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

"Observing directly, you get a feeling of velocity and the force which you don't get on TV," notes one fan. "Their size is impressive."

The Matches

To win the match, one rikishi needs to force his opponent off the clay or to the floor using brute strength.

The majority use one of dual approaches to succeed in this, often in instantaneous actions - pushing, or grappling.

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi crashing together in the first moment of the match resounds around the auditorium.

Prime Locations

The cushions right next to the ring are of course extremely sought-after - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one particular match, a 191cm wrestler went plummeting into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the initial aspects most people imagine when they contemplate wrestling.

The hall's organizers 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 challenges behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its appeal among young Japanese is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's declining population will present additional challenges.

International Network

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Witnessing these custom and formality that is part of sumo is quite special," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it in person, you experience being you are more part of it."

For other dedicated followers, the drama "produced unforgettable moments" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a very niche online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to chat with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was worth every penny."