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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
Following Saturday's Ultimate Fighter 17 Finale the long-running reality program will shift network homes once again. UFC President Dana White confirmed on Saturday that TUF will shift over to Fox Sports 1 this fall, along with the rest of the UFC's programming. It will also shift nights once again, moving to a Wednesday 10PM ET timeslot.
That will keep it a part of Fox's plans to brand Wednesday nights for the UFC on FS1, which launches on August 17 with a live UFC event. Wednesday nights will feature live events, replays, and special programming, along with now The Ultimate Fighter.
"Bringing The Ultimate Fighter to FOX Sports 1 is like adding a big bat to an exciting young lineup," said Fox Sports' Eric Shanks. "TUF has jump-started the careers of dozens of fighters, many who have gone on to become UFC champions. It's going to be a welcomed addition to Fox Sports 1, and the perfect anchor for our Wednesday prime time UFC block. We're absolutely thrilled to have it."
"Season 17 of The Ultimate Fighter just ended and it was the best season we've ever done," said UFC President Dana White. "Season 18 is going to be historic and groundbreaking with the first-ever women coaches, and men and women training and living together, and we're excited to be airing it on the best new sports network in the country, Fox Sports 1."
The next season of the show will begin filming this summer, with coaches Ronda Rousey and Cat Zingano, who defeated Miesha Tate on Saturday night to earn the slot. The season will feature bantamweights in both the men's and women's divisions as well.
"Having the opportunity to help fighters kick off their careers – especially the women – is an amazing experience," said Rousey. "I've had the chance to be a guest on past episodes, and I felt the passion, determination and commitment these fighters bring to the sport. I can't wait to start coaching this next history-making season on this exciting new network."
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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