March 28, 2008 - Source: Chris Casacchia, Phoenix Business Journal

Ultimate Fighting Championship hopefuls, mixed martial artists and Valley residents looking for an alternative to traditional aerobics, yoga and weight training soon will have their day in the ring.

MMA legend Ken Shamrock, the first UFC Superfight champion and one of only four fighters inducted into the sports Hall of Fame, will open Lion's Den Scottsdale on May 30.

The 8,000-square-foot facility, at 2954 N. Hayden Road, features 3,000 square feet of grappling and striking mat space, a full weight and cardio room, a professional-size boxing ring and UFC's hallmark battlefield: the octagon.

After researching UFC pay-per-view sales and demographics in the region, Shamrock and his group of investors saw an opportunity in a largely untapped market, despite its status as an athletic and health-conscious city.