The Ultimate Fighter reality series began in 2005; its first finale between Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar is often credited with launching the UFC into the mainstream.
The Ultimate Fighter is the UFC's reality series: fighters live together, train under two coaches and compete in a tournament for a UFC contract, with the finals held at a UFC event.
The first season's finale in April 2005 — Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar — is widely credited with bringing the UFC into the American mainstream.
Latest results
The Ultimate Fighter 34 finales — September 26–27, 2026, UFC Apex (UFC Vegas 121), Las Vegas, Nevada.
Finals
| Division | Winner | Opponent | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bantamweight | Ilimbek Akylbek Uulu | Mehemmedali Osmanli | Disqualification (illegal knee), R1 2:19 |
| Women's strawweight | Tina Black | — | Won the final (details per UFC) |
History & key moments
| Year | Moment |
|---|---|
| 2005 | First season; Griffin–Bonnar finale |
| 2026 | TUF 34: Ilimbek Akylbek Uulu (bantamweight) and Tina Black (strawweight) win |
A fan's guide
The Ultimate Fighter combines reality TV with a tournament: episodes follow the fighters' training and rivalries, and each ends with a fight. The finals are held on a UFC card at the end of the season.
TUF 34 in 2026 featured bantamweights and strawweights, with finals at UFC Vegas 121.
Our take
TUF is no longer the star-maker it was in 2005, but it still identifies UFC-ready prospects, and the coaching storylines remain good television. The 2026 men's final, decided by a disqualification, was an unfortunate end to a good season.
We would like future seasons to return to bigger coaching match-ups, which were the main reason casual fans watched.
What's next
The next season of The Ultimate Fighter is expected to be announced in early 2027.
Latest coverage
Coverage of the next edition will appear here.
FAQ
Who won The Ultimate Fighter 34?
Ilimbek Akylbek Uulu won the bantamweight tournament and Tina Black won the women's strawweight tournament.
When did The Ultimate Fighter start?
2005.
Where can I watch it?
On Paramount+ in the US.