Business Nation - August Encore 2007

"FIGHTING INC."

Not long ago, it was described as barbaric, human cockfighting, and was vilified by both the press and politicians. Today, mixed martial arts -- a combination of combat sports like judo, wrestling and boxing -- is one of the fastest growing entertainment attractions in the United States. With big-bucks television deals and product endorsements, mixed martial arts now generates as much money as blue-chip professional sports.

CNBC's Scott Wapner profiles Dana White, the no-holds-barred business brains behind the sport's biggest brand UFC.   White -- who is described as a cross between George Foreman and Jack Welch -- had the vision to turn blood and guts into pure gold.

"eFENCING"

Pawnshops have long been the place for burglars to sell their stolen goods. Not any more. Now, a major source of stolen property in the country is eBay -- the world's largest on-line auction site.

CNBC Senior Correspondent Scott Cohn investigates and has advice about what everyone needs to know before placing a bid on eBay.

"IT'S WAR!"

“IT’S WAR!” 
Mattel is the biggest toy company in the world, and Barbie is its top-selling brand.  But that may not be for long.  A vicious fight is brewing in Toyland.  In one corner, the 47-year-old reigning icon, Barbie.  In the other, a team of saucy and controversial Bratz dolls, ready to battle for every bit of the $5 billion dollar worldwide market. 

CNBC's David Faber, chief correspondent of Business Nation, goes behind the lines in the doll wars.