UFC announces TUF: Australia vs UK - The Smashes

The UFC has confirmed that Australia will be the next recipient of an international version of The Ultimate Fighter reality TV series, in which fighters live, train and fight together for the ultimate prize of a UFC contract.

The series will be nicknamed “The Smashes” due to the long standing sporting rivalry between the two nations culminating at its peak in The Ashes cricket series, and it looks like filming should take place in Australia.

This show has produced known fighters such as Forrest Griffin, Stephan Bonnar, Rashad Evans, Michael Bisping and Roy Nelson, with 15 seasons undertaken in the US and one currently running in Brazil.

From the press release, for those budding Australian fighters, live tryouts will be held in Sydney June 12th and are open to fighters aged between 21 and 35, who are between 61kg – 77 kg in weight and have three verified professional fights to their name, with at least two wins.

For the Australian MMA scene, this is a huge opportunity to not only highlight the fighters that we currently have in the local scene, but to also encourage a strong base for future champions and shine a positive light on a sport that is growing in Australia.

There is no word yet on coaches or when the series will start however keep your eyes on The Roar as we bring you updated information.

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