UFC signs deal with Vale Tudo Japan to produce tournament re

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UFC signs deal with Vale Tudo Japan to produce tournament reality series
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Over the past few years the UFC has slowly started to build it's brand and market in Japan, a country revered for it's MMA history. Today the UFC announced a huge step forward in that effort:

UFC President Dana White announced late Wednesday night that the Las Vegas-based promotion has signed a deal with Vale Tudo Japan to “promote and operate a new tournament series projected to debut later this year.”

The tournament, which White likened to “The Ultimate Fighter” reality series, is expected to feature fighters from the bantamweight and featherweight divisions. The fights will air on Japanese terrestrial television, according to a release. More details regarding the agreement will be unveiled when the Octagon touches down in Japan this September for UFC Fight Night “Hunt vs. Nelson.”

“Much like ‘The Ultimate Fighter,’ this series will continue to cultivate and popularize top talent for us in new markets. The round-robin tournament concept is going to make for amazing fights, with a lot at stake," White said. "Every fight will matter, every performance will count. I am so excited to be back in Japan."

Original Article: - http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/UFC-Signs-Developmental-Deal-with-Vale-Tudo-Japan-to-Promote-Tournament-Series-69685