The New Competition Format
Dana White proceeded to drop the atom bomb on this season’s competition format. Gone were the silly physical challenges to determine which team would decide which pair of fighters would compete. This decision would rest simply in the fate of a coin toss. The team that won the fight would retain control of the next fight. The contest also adopts a tournament format to ensure all fighters fought at least one bout before advancing in the competition. The fights had also been shortened to two rounds and one overtime round instead of the previous three rounds. This modification would inspire fighters to go all out and not leave anything to chance.
I wonder whether fans of the show will react positively to these changes. I know that many Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fans have written in forums and online bulletin boards and these changes had been the result of the UFC listening to its fans. My opinion is that it’s about time that Dana and the UFC made it right!
The Opening Fight
Back to what this show was based on, the season-opening bout pitted Canadian Kalib Starnes against Mike Stine. Kalib took control right away in the opening minute, scoring a slam, and a full mount. Mike Stine tried rolling Kalib to reverse the bad situation, but Kalib proved too much of a veteran for such a move. With a gentle arm hook under the legs, Kalib leveraged the roll’s momentum and carried himself back on top. Mike could do nothing but duck and wince as Kalib launched punch after punch at Mike’s head. Team Punishment suffered the first setback and would look to wrestle the fight control back in the next episode
Will You Submit?
It’s finally started again! I really enjoyed blogging about the past two seasons of The Ultimate Fighter. The reality series was quite unique in its genre because, like The Amazing Race, the contestants were in full control of whether or not they got eliminated. There were no votes, no judges, and alliances made little sense. You fought to stay off elimination. It was as simple as that! I hope you will join me as the season progresses and also share your thoughts about each episode.
.jpg?t=20120527181101)
Article comments
1 - Thomas Myers
I thought that Mike Stines was pathetic. I hope that he does not represent the so-called best season yet. What a Sally. Kalib looked good, though. I believe the first season set the bar high. Season 2 didn't come close, and this one has a ways to go. Let's keep those fingers crossed.
2 - predictor
Kalib is definetly going to win this thing ;)