In the brutal world of professional mixed martial arts fighting, the rules of engagement are very clear: no eye gouging, choking, or blows to the back of the head. Every other form of assault is readily accepted as part of the game.

While many people might classify the sport as barbaric, conjuring images of broken bones, bruised egos and limping competitors, Las Vegas resident Kenny "The Shark" Heuer, 33, only sees the art behind the sport.