Doug Merlino takes us from the cage to the training gyms to the fighters' living rooms in a characterdriven examination of the world's fastestgrowing sport: MMA. Mixed martial arts is the fastest-growing sport in America; all over the country new gyms are popping up and new viewers are tuning 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 the gym American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Florida. Author Doug Merlino had unprecedented access, training alongside the men for two years, traveling to their matches, and eating in their homes. Mirsad Bektic is a young Bosnian refugee who started in karate as a boy in Nebraska and dreams of stardom. Jeff Monson is a battered veteran at fortyone, an outspoken, tattooed anarchist enjoying a bizarre burst of celebrity in Russia. Steve Mocco is a newcomer—a former Olympic wrestler from a closeknit, intellectual family. Finally, there's Daniel Straus, an excon who has fought his way from nothing up to title contention. All will experience electrifying highs and career lows, and Merlino is there every step of the way. But along with blood-spattered front-row access, Merlino brings us a blunt examination of the history, culture, business, and meaning of professional cage fighting. Beast is a book for both the uninitiated and the hardcore fan, a fascinating journey into an often misunderstood world. | Beast by Doug Merlino, Hardcover | Indigo Chapters