Australia Vs. The United Kingdom Being Discussed For International TUF

Source: London Telegraph

With The Ultimate Fighter getting a new home on FX beginning next year, a possible international version of the show is being discussed that would pit Australia against the United Kingdom.

"Right now, we have three Australian broadcasters interested and a number of blue chip sponsors willing to write checks," UFC managing director of international development Marshall Zelaznik said in an interview recently. "That's what has us really excited, the fact we have serious backers for a concept that is obviously very expensive to produce. I'd like to think that before the end of the year we could be into pre-production. The pieces are certainly coming together."

The show would give the UFC another leg up on the international fight market, something UFC President Dana White wants as he pushes the company into the global force he envisions.

White and Zelaznik both talked about expanding TUF internationally during pre-fight press conferences for UFC 127. A possible Philippines version has also been placed on the table.

Possible coaches being discussed include Dan Hardy for the U.K. and Brian Ebersole for the Aussies.