Where the big shows go, the little one is quick to follow. On the heels of the UFC's rumored return to Brazil in early 2012, UFC President Dana White confirmed rumors on Thursday of the first international "The Ultimate Fighter" season heading to the birthplace of mixed martial arts.
"The first international 'TUF' will be in Brazil," White declared to the media after the UFC 137 pre-fight press conference (via MMAJunkie.com).
According to White, the show will be based in Brazil and aired on South American media giant Globo. In addition, UFC.com is reporting a deal between Globo TV and the fight promotion to air all live future events in the region, including the UFC's November 12th debut on Fox.
No timetable has been set for the development and taping of 'TUF: Brazil', though White promises American audiences won't be left in the dark. With plans to host future seasons in both Canada and the Philippines already in motion, the UFC president says Fox-owned FUEL TV may be the solution.
"What we're talking about is the other ones that air in other countries, we're trying to figure out how we can air them on FUEL TV," White explained. "If you're a UFC fan, you want FUEL TV. FUEL TV is going to be loaded with all kinds of incredible UFC programming, including live fights and live fights from other countries."