The Ultimate Fighter 9" U.K. tryouts net record number of prospects

[jonman12]

Before packing up and returning to the U.S. after Saturday's "UFC 89: Bispng vs. Leben," the UFC held an open casting call for "The Ultimate Fighter 9: U.S. vs. U.K." in London.

Just two days after Brit and "The Ulitmate Fighter 3" winner Michael Bisping was victorious in front of his countrymen, MMAjunkie.com (UFC blog for UFC news, UFC rumors, fighter interviews and event previews/recaps | MMAjunkie.com) has learned over 200 hopeful fighters showed up to the Earls Court Exhibition Centre for their chance at a UFC contract.

Already tabbed as the coach of the U.K. team, Bisping and fellow English fighters and UFC 89 participants Terry Etim and Paul Taylor were also on hand in support of the would-be "TUF" contestants.

Mixed martial arts has enjoyed a rapid surge in popularity and participation in the U.K. in recent years. After a five year absence from the U.K., the UFC has held five events across the Atlantic in the past 18 months.

In contrast, when the UFC held open tryouts for the third season of "The Ultimate Fighters" in 2006, less than 30 fighters showed up for the session.

One of the more notable participants in the afternoon's session was "The Ultimate Fighter 3" cast member Ross Pointon. The Cage Rage veteran appeared twice in the UFC following his stint on the show, losing both contests.

Vying for an unprecedented second stint on the program, Pointon showed up with a haircut that sported the letters "UFC" etched into the back of his head.

Filming for "The Ultimate Fighter 9: U.S. vs. U.K" will begin in Las Vegas in January, and the new season will air on Spike TV beginning in April. The season will feature 16 American and 16 British fighters competing for a UFC contract in the 185 pound and 170 pound divisions.

"The Ultimate Fighter 9" U.K. tryouts net record number of prospects | MMAjunkie.com

[LasciviousXXX]

I'm still very excited to see this season. I think it will add a layer of depth to the show its been missing.