The IFL (International Fight League) is working in conjunction with Throwdown Industries to develop a new hexagonal-shaped fighting surface.

From the official IFL press release:

"Dubbed 'The Hex', the six-sided surface will measure 24 feet across (27’ 8 ½” end-to-end) and will be enclosed by five ropes. The use of The Hex maintains the viewing advantage for fans in attendance as well as the television audience that the ring provides, while also allowing for the strategic benefits of a hexagonal surface."

"From a production and live event standpoint, the ring has proven to be the most fan and media friendly environment, as well as providing the safest possible environment for our athletes," said Jay Larkin, IFL CEO. "The Hex allows for the larger surface that is utilized in other MMA organizations while still retaining the advantages we have enjoyed with the ring."

Throwdown, a leader in MMA gyms and training centres, is currently building a prototype in Las Vegas, Nevada. The IFL have stated that athletes and coaches will have the opportunity to train with the new ring design before its debut event in Jersey, USA on August 15th.

"'The Hex' is quite different from the other world-class MMA facilities we have built," said Throwdown President Mike McIntyre. "We are excited to be putting our expertise to work in developing what we feel will be an optimal surface for the sport as it continues to grow."