SpringfieldNewsSun.com

When Toby Sanders isn't fighting crime, he's supporting a fight of a different kind.

An 11-year veteran of the Clark County Sheriff's Office, Sanders is a trained martial artist who is a big fan of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, a sport that combines elements of various forms of martial arts and boxing.

His interest in the sport and frustration with trying to buy UFC merchandise led him to open Across the Cage, a retail outlet specializing in UFC apparel and other goods.

The store, opened in July, is located inside the Special T Shop, 20 W. Columbia, which is owned by Sanders's father.

"I've always been a fan and went to various Web sites to get gear," he said, "but each retailer had its own site, so that meant multiple shipping chargers and lots of wait time."

Sanders's current inventory includes T-shirts for men and women, hats, sweatshirts and decals from Tapout, Punishment Athletics, Hitman Fightgear and Premiere Fighter — some of the major brands affiliated with the sport.

"By coming into the shop, customers can try things on and walk out with their items. Then there are no problems with ordering the right size or returning things," he said. Sanders is the only authorized dealer in Springfield and one of a small pool regionally.

A Web site is currently under development so he can reach a wider audience, offering people an opportunity to shop and order from home, he said.

While some people are still unfamiliar with the sport, it is becoming more mainstream and state regulation began about five years ago, Sanders said.

Many states, including Ohio, now sanction the sport through their respective athletic agencies. In Ohio, rules focus on weight classes, refereeing rules and judging parameters.

The reality television series "The Ultimate Fighter" is in its seventh season on Spike TV.

Sanders is taking advantage of the rise in popularity to boost business. He has set up shop at events in Columbus and sponsored a Beavercreek-based fighter, Mike Patt in a recent UFC event in Atlanta.

He's hoping to be able to expand his inventory and move to a stand-alone location as more people learn about UFC and support it, he said.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0371 or elroberts@coxohio.com.