The Ultimate Fighter has undeniably been a significant platform for some of the biggest names in the world of MMA. Michael Bisping, Nate Diaz, and Tony Ferguson are some of the many famous fighters to come out of this show. However, the popularity of TUF has been on the decline recently, prompting discussions about alternative avenues for aspiring fighters.
In a recent interview with Brendan Schaub, MMA veterans Matt Serra and Ray Longo discussed the current state of MMA and the UFC. One particular topic that caught Schaub‘s attention was the comparison between TUF and Dana White‘s other scouting venture.
Dana White: Brendan Schaub talks about the declining relevance of TUF
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Schaub expressed his opinion that, while TUF was a significant platform in the past, the show’s viewership has dwindled in recent years. He even went as far as to suggest that if he were managing fighters, he would prioritize placing them on Dana White‘s Contender Series.
According to the former fighter, Dana White’s contender series has consistently produced some of the best prospects for the UFC. “The Ultimate Fighter was… especially back in the day, especially your season, my season, it was a big deal man! I was always under the assumption if I had a young fighter trying to get in the UFC, I’ll put them on Dana White’s Contender Series. I think that has put out the best prospects ever.”
“Nobody is watching The Ultimate Fighter, do Dana White Contender series.”
Schaub admits that TUF Season 31 is bringing its hype back!
The upcoming season of TUF, featuring Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler as coaches, seems to be generating significant hype. While taking shots at TUF, Schaub acknowledged the potential of this season. Moreover, he suggested that the star power of McGregor and Chandler could reignite interest in the show.
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“But now with Conor and Chandler, maybe now is the time to go back to The Ultimate Fighter.”
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Schaub himself was a part of The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights, which was its 10th season. He lost in the finale of the show, but still managed to get a UFC contract. With TUF returning at the end of May, fans await to see what this season has in store.