UFC Gym building getting a makeover in Bethesda

The building that most recently housed UFC Gym and L.A. Boxing on Cordell Avenue is getting an updated facade. About a week ago, I found a permit request to Montgomery County to add 5 windows to the building. Now I've found a bit more information on the project on the website of local architecture firm Steven J. Karr, AIA, Inc., which is orchestrating a growing number of projects in downtown Bethesda.

SJKAIA has been hired by Greenhill Capital to design the window addition, which will also involve a code modification request related to Montgomery County fire code. I was not aware of this, but apparently, the proximity of your side wall to the property line determines how much of your wall can be "unprotected" - such as how many square feet can be taken up by glass. In the case of the UFC building, the 5 windows will be in the side wall.

The project is expected to be completed by October of this year.

FORMER UFC GYM NOW FOR LEASE IN BETHESDA (PHOTO)

The former UFC Gym, which recently closed on Cordell Avenue in Bethesda, is now officially for lease. It is owned by Greenhill Capital.

UFC Gym remains a puzzler, coming into town with great fanfare and, presumably, big bucks and a major brand name behind it. Yet it folded faster than the far lesser-known LA Boxing.

UFC GYM GRAND OPENING TODAY IN BETHESDA

UFC Gym will celebrate its grand opening today, even though it's been open for nearly a year on Cordell Avenue. Meet Intern John of Hot 99.5 FM today at 5:00 PM, and enjoy games, prize giveaways, and free personal training from the gym's instructors. Yes, UFC Gym is a side venture of that UFC. It was previously known as L.A. Boxing, before being acquired by UFC Gym.

UFC Gym

4834 Cordell Avenue

(301) 656-3910

UFC GYM INSTALLS SIGN IN BETHESDA (PHOTO)

UFC Gym, formerly L.A. Boxing on Cordell Avenue, has installed its permanent, exterior sign. Yes, the gym is an official offshoot of the MMA fighting empire.

L.A. BOXING BETHESDA TO BECOME UFC GYM, OFFER MMA-BASED FITNESS PROGRAMS AND WORKOUTS

L.A. Boxing has been acquired by UFC Gyms, a company affiliated with - yes - the UFC mixed martial arts league. Hence, L.A. Boxing Bethesda's location at 4834 Cordell Avenue will soon change its name to, you guessed it, UFC Gym.

The new brand will bring a new workout program to the facility, combining general fitness with techniques derived from mixed martial arts.  However, workouts will accomodate all levels from beginner to experienced. And don't be alarmed if you are a current member - they're not going to force you to fight fellow members. It will be a fitness club, not a Fight Club!

Expect the hefty corporate backing of UFC to boost your perks and bring new kinds of special events, however.