Former American Top Team coach Andre Benkei is returning to Florida.
The Brazilian fighter recently signed a three-year contract to serve as the MMA head coach at the new UFC gym in Largo, Florida, and has big plans in the works.
“It’s going to be huge, 30,000 square feet,” Benkei told Sherdog.com. “In addition to a fantastic gym with all the equipment imaginable, the gym will also house an MMA training center with top team coaches. Muay Thai) and Adam Muzzin (Jiu-Jitsu) who is the agent of Dean Lister.Cuban boxer Pedro Diaz is also joining us and will be announced soon. [decorated] He’s an American wrestler. ”
Benkei also revealed that a mixed martial arts themed reality show will be filmed at the facility.
“The grand opening will be in August, but before that we will start filming a reality show called ‘Road to the Cage,'” he said. “The reality show consists of training routines of fighters who fight in local events until they reach the top event. They don’t fight each other like in other MMA reality shows.
“You’ll have 12 to 24 guys living in one house, eating the same food, going through the same routine. New talent and already big events like Guto Inocente, Edson Panico and Bruce Souto. We will be combining fighters from Dagestan, Europe and Japan for trials in the gym. We are currently negotiating with OnlyFans for a TV channel. We look forward to the full support of the Tampa Bay community.”
According to Benkei, the “Road to the Cage” concept transcends traditional boundaries by integrating professional fighter training and fitness with family spirit.
“It will be unlike any other MMA reality show you’ve ever seen. In addition to training routines, you’ll also enjoy Florida’s picturesque scenery, including Clearwater and Sarasota’s famous beaches. “Our goal is to showcase the journey of aspiring fighters who train tirelessly to compete on the grandest stage of the UFC,” he said. “I can’t wait to get started.”
