Liberty Lake-based software maker Gravity Jack Inc. has launched Fighter Bonus, an interactive phone application and website for mixed martial arts fans.
In a press release, Gravity Jack says fans can download the app on their smart phones or log onto its website, www.fighterbonus.com, and choose from a list of fight-move options that they'd like to see a fighter do in the ring.
Fighter Bonus uses the idea of crowdsourcing, or obtaining contributions from a group of online users, to give fighters incentives while in the ring. Users buy FightBucks to put toward certain fight moves called jackpots. The jackpots are fight-ending moves, such as knockouts or submissions. The FightBucks can also be put toward "bounties" on certain fighters that fans want to see in a fight. The minimum contribution is $1.
Professional MMA fighter and Fighter Bonus co-founder Joel Thomas says in the release that the app enables fighters and coaches to take fan preferences into consideration while planning and executing a fight.
"Nothing is more important outside the cage than the fans," Thomas asserts.
Luke Richey, CEO of Gravity Jack and Fighter Bonus co-founder, says in the press release, "MMA is the fastest-growing sport in the world in terms of fan base. What we've built is the first interactive platform that will allow that dedicated fan base to communicate with and provide bonuses to the fighters they're cheering for."
On Sept. 3, Gravity Jack held a product launch event at Liberty Lake for Fighter Bonus, complete with demonstrations of Fighter Bonus, professional fighters, and an MMA cage.
Gravity Jack was founded in 2009 by Terry Hoy and Luke Richey.
The company specializes in custom software, mobile apps, and augmented reality technology.
The company has handled projects for companies such as Coca-Cola, Myspace, and Boeing.
Gravity Jack also received investments through Kick Start I, a family of angel funds set up by Spokane entrepreneur Tom Simpson.