But while the main attraction has only gotten more popular, the TV show has seen declining ratings as its two-seasons-a-year approach possibly offers more supply than the demand calls for.
And when mega-names like Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor can’t drum those ratings up higher, then there’s no shame in tapping out.
Jeremy Botter does have insider knowledge and his social media feed is filled with knowledgeable insights, so this news could be right on the money.
The Ultimate Fighter has been kicking (and Superman-punching and elbowing) since its 2005 debut on Spike, and that first season ended in a bout between future champ Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar that is widely considered one of the best and most important fights in the still-growing sport.