ESPN is set to air the eagerly-awaited return of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF), the reality television series that introduced millions to future UFC champions and top contenders.
Former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion Conor McGregor squares off with No. 5 ranked lightweight contender Michael Chandler as coaches in TUF’s 31st season.
Exclusively available on ESPN, the entire season, encompassing 12 episodes, will premiere on Wednesday, May 31 at 12.30pm AEST. New episodes will follow every Wednesday, released simultaneously with the United States broadcast. Primetime re-airings and on-demand viewing options are also available for fans’ convenience.
TUF 31 brings together a dynamic mix of returning veterans and promising prospects in the men’s bantamweight and lightweight divisions. These fighters have set aside their daily lives for an opportunity to chase their UFC dreams.
The spotlight this season is on the coaching rivalry between McGregor (22-6), a former double champion and one of the sport’s biggest stars, and Chandler (23-8), a one-time lightweight title contender known for his dynamic fighting style and engaging personality. This season builds anticipation for their eventual face-off later this year.
McGregor brings a wealth of experience to TUF, having previously served as a coach on TUF 22 and boasting victories over former UFC champions Eddie Alvarez, Jose Aldo, and Max Holloway.
Chandler, on the other hand, renowned for his dramatic finishes against opponents like Dan Hooker and Tony Ferguson, aims to make his mark with a successful TUF coaching season before his showdown with McGregor.
Produced by Pilgrim Media Group, TUF was a key player in UFC’s surge in popularity during the early 2000s, shining the spotlight on fighters like Randy Couture, Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz, and Ken Shamrock.
