NEW MMA THEMED STORE OPENS

Posted on | November 15, 2007 | No Comments

Opening of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Themed Store in Valley West
Mall Breaks Trend Setting Retail Ground

Des Moines, IA- November 15, 2007 – UFC fighter Jeremy Stephens and fellow fighter Paul Bird will combine numerous synergistic elements when they open PJ’s Combat Hut at Valley West Mall in West Des Moines on Friday, November 23. “Tying the hottest sport, a killer location, and a personality driven retail concept together provides a destination for fight fans and creates an environment to make new ones,” commented Stephens, a local fighting legend and rising national star.

The 2,000 square foot store is located in a space previously occupied by The Limited. PJ’s Combat Hut is one of the largest stores of its type in the country and may well be the first located in an enclosed mall. The store carries clothing, books, DVD’s, and items appealing to fans, as well as supplies for fighters and people training in the sport. MMA apparel, commonly known as fight gear, has become one of the most popular categories in many clothing and department stores, including Nordstrom’s. PJ’s Combat Hut will carry many of the most recognized clothing lines including Sinister, Pimpit, Warrior Wear, UFC Wear, Stacks and Bundles, Kubed, and Title Boxing, as well as a private label from Jeremy Stephens.

“There is amazing support of MMA in Iowa now and interest continues to blow up,” provided partner Paul Bird. MMA has become the fastest growing sport in the country and has garnered significant national press recently. Stephens and Bird are able to utilize relationships with other celebrities, while applying their own celebrity to create excitement in the store. “Mixing it up with fans is absolutely one of my favorite parts of being a fighter. As I will frequently be in the store, I’m able to extend myself to more fans and to thank them for what they’ve done for me,” offered a grateful Stephens.

PJ’s opening on the Friday following Thanksgiving is traditionally the busiest shopping day of the year. A Grand Opening follows on Saturday, November 24, with celebrity appearances by well known UFC fighters Josh Neer and Spencer Fisher. Both fighters will be on hand from 10AM to noon, and 1PM-3PM to meet fans, provide autographs, and offer photo opportunities.

PJ’s Combat Hut is located in Valley West Mall on the lower level near the food court. They can be reached online at www.myspace.com/pjscombathut and by phone at 515-360-5450.