Get ready for fireworks as two of the most popular fighters in UFC history, Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen, have been announced as the head coaches for the upcoming season of the iconic reality series The Ultimate Fighter. The UFC Hall of Famers, who currently co-host the “Good Guy/Bad Guy” show on ESPN, will bring their larger-than-life personalities and unparalleled MMA knowledge to guide the next generation of UFC hopefuls.
Legendary Careers Collide
Daniel Cormier, a retired two-weight champion, and Chael Sonnen, a three-time title challenger, have left an indelible mark on the sport of mixed martial arts. Their paths have crossed numerous times over the years, both inside and outside the octagon.
Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen are two of the most respected and knowledgeable athletes we’ve ever had on our roster. To have them both as coaches on TUF, imparting their wisdom and experience to up-and-coming fighters, is an opportunity we couldn’t pass up.
– Dana White, UFC President
Cormier, known for his elite wrestling and well-rounded skillset, captured both the UFC light heavyweight and heavyweight titles during his illustrious career. He retired in 2020 with a record of 22-3 and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame the following year.
Meanwhile, Sonnen’s trash-talking antics and relentless fighting style made him a fan favorite. His rivalry with Anderson Silva, which culminated in a legendary title fight at UFC 117 in 2010, was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Fight Wing in 2024. Sonnen retired in 2019 with a record of 30-18-1.
Good Guy vs. Bad Guy
The dynamic between Cormier and Sonnen as opposing coaches promises to be electric. Their contrasting personalities – Cormier’s measured and analytical approach versus Sonnen’s brazen and provocative style – will undoubtedly lead to some must-see TV moments.
The two have a history of verbal sparring, dating back to their active careers and continuing through their current roles as ESPN analysts. Now, they’ll have the opportunity to put their money where their mouth is, as they aim to guide their respective teams to victory.
Chael Sonnen and I have always had a complicated relationship. We respect each other as fighters and colleagues, but we also know how to get under each other’s skin. Coaching against him on TUF is going to be a unique challenge, but it’s one I’m more than ready for.
– Daniel Cormier
The Ultimate Opportunity
For the fighters selected to participate on The Ultimate Fighter 33, the chance to learn from two MMA legends like Cormier and Sonnen is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The coaches will impart their wisdom, share their experiences, and help mold the next wave of UFC stars.
- Elite-level coaching from two UFC Hall of Famers
- Exposure to millions of viewers on ESPN
- Chance to earn a UFC contract and launch their career
The show, which premieres on May 27, promises to be a must-watch for MMA fans around the world. With Cormier and Sonnen at the helm, the stakes have never been higher, and the competition will be fiercer than ever.
I’ve never backed down from a challenge, and coaching against Daniel Cormier on The Ultimate Fighter is no different. I’m here to win, and I’m going to make sure my team has the tools they need to succeed in the UFC.
– Chael Sonnen
A New Chapter Begins
As the MMA world eagerly awaits the premiere of The Ultimate Fighter 33, one thing is certain: with Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen leading the charge, this season is poised to be the most explosive and entertaining in the show’s history. Two legends will collide, rivalries will be reignited, and a new generation of UFC superstars will be born.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey, as Cormier and Sonnen set out to prove once and for all who is the better coach, mentor, and MMA mastermind. The Ultimate Fighter has never seen anything like this before, and it’s a season that fight fans won’t want to miss.
