DaytonDailyNews.com

WEST CHESTER — Renowned Brazilian jiu-jitsu trainer Jorge Gurgel will open the doors to his local training facility Saturday for an open house and mixed martial arts exhibition.

As the sport of MMA explodes in popularity, Gurgel's 13,000-square-foot facility has earned a reputation as one of the top training centers in the world, offering both professional and amateur fighters instruction in jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, boxing and other martial arts.

Gurgel, himself a competitor in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and a former cast member on "The Ultimate Fighter 2" reality television series, has instructed some of the UFC's other top fighters, including former middleweight champion Rich Franklin, veteran Joe Riggs and up-and-comers Marcus Davis and Dustin Hazelett.

All of the fighters will be on hand for Saturday's event, where they'll take part in demonstrations, discuss training and techniques, and sign autographs.

"I'm very excited to open the doors to the center," said Gurgel, who majored in international business at Wright State University. "The fans are going to be treated to a great event."

The open house runs from 1 to 5 p.m. and will include vendor booths, raffle prizes and informational sessions with personal trainers and instructors.

Dann Stupp is editor-in-chief of UFCjunkie.com. Visit

for the latest UFC and MMA news.

What: Mixed martial arts exhibition and meet-and-greet with Ultimate Fighting Championship fighters

When: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday

Where: Jorge Gurgel

Mixed Martial Arts Academy, 716 Service Center Drive,

West Chester

Cost: Free

More Info: www.teamjorgegurgel.com