UFC Announces Tryouts for Chinese ‘Ultimate Fighter’ Beginning July 21 in Beijing
It appears that China will serve as host to the next international iteration of “The Ultimate Fighter.”
UFC officials recently announced that the Las Vegas-based organization will begin holding tryouts next month for featherweight, lightweight and welterweight fighters wishing to participate in the latest version of the long-running reality show. “TUF: China” hopefuls can try out for the show on one of three dates: July 21 at Beijing’s Metropark Lido Hotel, July 25 at Marina Bay Sands Singapore and Aug. 3 at the Venetian Macao.
All competitors must be at least 18 years old and have professional experience verifiable through Sherdog.com or MixedMartialArts.com, according to the official release. Fighters may not be contractually obligated to another organization, unless they are able to provide written proof of the contract’s termination. A premiere date for the season was not mentioned, but the series will air on Liaoning TV in China.
The UFC first dabbled in international “TUF” expansion during the show’s ninth season, which featured teams from the United States and the United Kingdom going head-to-head. Since that time, the organization has launched three international iterations of the show, two of which took place in Brazil. Two more series are currently forthcoming, as the U.S.-based “TUF 18” will debut in September, while a series pitting Canada against Australia is planned for next year.
