C. Gadelha (photo) was one of the fighters signed by Ultimate. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Shortly after publicly announcing its interest in creating the women's strawweight category, the Ultimate organization finally released its plans for the start of the new division, which will have a weight limit of up to 52,2 kg. At a press conference in the United States, president Dana White announced that he had acquired the contracts of eleven fighters from the Invicta FC event and that he will inaugurate the new category with the Invicta FC tournament. The Ultimate Fighter 20.
“The fans like it, I’m really happy about it and we’re going to dive right into the 115 pound (52,2 kg) division.” We are involved, we are involved, as far as women respond”, said White, in an interview with the “MMA Junkie” website. The director also revealed that he also works with other organizations to increase the roster of athletes.
The TUF 20 tournament, the first reality show in the organization's history to feature an all-female cast, begins airing on May 18, 2014 in the United States and will define the inaugural champion of the strawweight category. Among the athletes hired are Brazilians Claudia Gadelha and Juliana Lima. In addition to the duo, nine other athletes are confirmed on the program: Alex Chambers, Felice herrig, Bec Hyatt, Emily Kagan, Rose namajunas, Tecia torres, Paige Van Zant and Joanne calderwood.
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