The basketball court used to be Glen Rice's domain, namely the Miami Arena. From 1989 to 1995, the Miami Heat star dazzled fans with his scoring ability, his shooting from behind the three-point arch and his tenacious attitude and focus.

Now Rice's new domain is an MMA cage.

No, Rice isn't becoming an MMA star. As he says, ``I would fight if I could, but I'm too old.''

At 42, he's actually four years younger than still-active former UFC champion Randy Couture, but Rice is happy being on the outside of that cage heading G-Force Promotions, which showcases their second-ever show Saturday night at BankUnited Center on the University of Miami campus.

``We wanted to have the show there because it ties into the younger crowd,'' Rice said. ``They had a card with Kimbo Slice and there was a lot of energy. The venue is beautiful and one of the best platforms to stage these fights. What better place to have it than on this college campus.''

Rice says he's not in it for the money. He loves the growing sport of mixed-martial arts. Being a former professional athlete, Rice respects what the fighters go through in preparation.

``I thought my focus was good when I played ball, but these guys take it three levels above that,'' Rice said. ``I'm amazed every time I see these guys train. These guys are talented and I want to help them get noticed. In basketball we always had a platform to showcase our talent. I wanted to do something to make it easier for them as well.''

With the sport growing, new promotional companies are forming. Among them are Shine Fight Promotions, Action Fight League, Bellator, WEC and, of course, UFC.

What separates G-Force from the other companies?

``You have Glen Rice behind it,'' Rice said. ``We're not from out of town. We're based in Miami. All the others fly in and put on shows. All the respect to the UFC and other companies, they've paved the way for us, and I like that there's so many. It keeps you on your toes. I'm trying to bring excitement to Miami.''

The 11-fight card called ``Bad Blood II'' includes two title fights featuring Luis ``Baboon'' Palomino taking on Jonathan Brookins for the ISKA 145-pound championship, and former Cuban bronze medalist Alexis Vila facing Cody Bell at 125 pounds. The first bout starts at 8 p.m.

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