Beast : Blood, Struggle, and Dreams at the Heart of Mixed Martial Arts - Merling Doug - 2015

DESCRIPTION

252 pages. This book is an unread copy. Covers have no creasing or wear. Spine is uncreased. Pages are clean and unmarked and in excellent condition. Mixed martial arts is America's fastest-growing sportaround the country, new gyms open their doors as enthusiastic viewers tune in to UFC matches. Although some dismiss it as brutal combat, its fighters are among the most dedicated athletes in any arena. But MMA also takes a heavy toll on the body, and it's a rare fighter who can earn a living in the sport's top ranks. Beast follows four high-level fighters at one of the sport's elite gyms, Florida's American Top Team. Doug Merlino had unprecedented access, training alongside the men for two years, traveling to their matches, and eating in their homes. Mirsad Bektic, a young Bosnian refugee who started in karate as a boy in Nebraska, dreams of stardom. Jeff Monson, a battered veteran at 41, is an outspoken, tattooed anarchist enjoying a bizarre burst of celebrity in Russia. Steve Mocco is a newcomera former Olympic wrestler from a close-knit, intellectual family. Finally there's Daniel Straus, who, from a life short on opportunity, fights his way up to title contention. All will experience electrifying highs and career lows, and Merlino takes us along every step of the way while also examining the history, culture, business, and meaning of professional cage fighting. Quantity Available: 1. Category: Sports & Pastimes; ISBN/EAN: 9781632864031. Inventory No: 20080039. By: Merling Doug Year: 2015 Visit our website to view thousands more products like this and order online at: