Jonathan Brookins brings Michael Johnson to the ground during their lightweight bout during The Ultimate Fighter 12 Finale at The Pearl at The Palms. Brookins became the 12th winner of “The Ultimate Fighter.”
Monday, Dec. 27, 2010 | 5:09 p.m.
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The Nevada State Athletic Commission on Monday unanimously approved to sanction a 13th season of "The Ultimate Fighter" reality show.
The show, where 16 participants train and live with one another in Las Vegas and ultimately compete with each other for a UFC contract, is required to follow the commission's health and safety standards just like any other combat-sports event hosted in Nevada.
As part of the approval, the commission agreed to defer the release of documents that would provide matchups or fight results. That way, the spirit of the reality show — knowing who advances — is kept.
The commissioners were very complimentary of the show, which airs weekly on Spike. The 13th season will feature welterweight and middleweight fighters.
Commissioner Pat Lundvall said she's heard multiple stories about how the show has inspired young adults to have a better fitness level.
"Not only does this provide an entertainment value, it provides a nutritional and fitness value," she said.
The show was seen in 100 million homes last season and is one of the 10 longest-tenured reality shows, said Michael Mersch, the UFC's lawyer.
Contestants and coaches have yet to be selected for season 13. Tryouts where held in early November, with fighters required to be at least 21 years of age and have three professional fights.
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