The Ultimate Fighter 34: Meet the Fighters Chasing UFC Glory

Premiered June 14, 2026 | Streaming on Paramount+ For more than two decades, The Ultimate Fighter has served as the launching pad for future UFC champions, contenders, and fan favorites. From Forrest Griffin and Rashad Evans to Michael Bisping and Kamaru Usman, the reality series has helped shape the careers of some of the biggest names in mixed martial arts. Now, TUF returns for its 34th season. This year's edition features male bantamweights and women's strawweights competing for the opportunity of a lifetime: a UFC contract. Guiding the athletes are two former UFC champions with vastly different coaching styles. Daniel Cormier, a former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion, brings elite wrestling credentials, championship experience, and a reputation for developing fighters. Across from him stands Michael Bisping, the former UFC middleweight champion whose career was built on grit, toughness, and overcoming long odds. With UFC contracts hanging in the balance, the stage is set for one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. Team Cormier vs. Team Bisping The season began with the traditional fighter draft. After winning the coin toss, Michael Bisping selected Xavier Franklin with the first overall pick. Daniel Cormier quickly responded by selecting Artem Belakh, the reigning LFA Bantamweight Champion, signaling just how highly he values the Russian prospect. Belakh's selection immediately became one of the biggest storylines of the season. Bantamweight Fighters to Watch Artem Belakh (11-2) Team Cormier The reigning LFA Bantamweight Champion enters the competition as one of the most accomplished fighters in the house. Originally from Krasnodar, Russia, Belakh later relocated to Thailand to train at Tiger Muay Thai, sharpening his striking while continuing to build on his strong grappling foundation. With championship experience already on his résumé and Daniel Cormier making him his first selection, many fans view Belakh as one of the favorites to win the entire season. Xavier Franklin Team Bisping Bisping's first overall selection immediately put Franklin under the spotlight. Being chosen first overall comes with expectations, and Franklin will have the opportunity to prove that Bisping's confidence was well placed. Rodrigo Vera (21-1-1) One of the most experienced bantamweights on the roster, Vera enters TUF with over twenty professional victories and the type of résumé that demands attention. Many observers believe he has the experience necessary to make a deep run. Abdul Hussein (15-2) Hussein brings an impressive professional record and enters the competition with momentum. His blend of experience and finishing ability makes him one of the dark horses of the season. Mehemmedeli Osmanli (12-1) Osmanli's record speaks for itself. With only one professional loss, he enters TUF as one of the most intriguing prospects in the tournament. Women's Strawweight Division The women's strawweight bracket is equally loaded with talent. As the season unfolds, a new generation of contenders will attempt to follow in the footsteps of former TUF alumni who went on to compete at the highest levels of the sport. The combination of hungry prospects, established regional champions, and rising stars should create compelling matchups throughout the season. Why TUF 34 Matters Winning The Ultimate Fighter is about more than earning a UFC contract. The show provides fighters with exposure, experience, and an opportunity to showcase their personalities in front of millions of fans. Many future stars make their first impression on the MMA world inside the TUF house. For fighters like Artem Belakh, Rodrigo Vera, Abdul Hussein, Mehemmedeli Osmanli, and Xavier Franklin, TUF 34 represents an opportunity to change their lives forever. Fight Plan Pro's Early Favorites While anything can happen inside the TUF house, several names immediately stand out: - Artem Belakh - Rodrigo Vera - Abdul Hussein - Mehemmedeli Osmanli - Xavier Franklin With elite coaching, high-pressure matchups, and UFC contracts on the line, expect surprises, upsets, and breakout performances throughout the season. One thing is certain: by the time the finale arrives, several future UFC fighters will emerge from TUF 34. The journey has officially begun.