TAMPA – The new season of The Ultimate Fighter kicked off with a bang, as two of MMA’s most formidable fighters, Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, stepped in as the coaches, with McGregor taking the Bantamweight and Lightweight rookies, and Chandler taking the Bantamweight and Lightweight veterans.

As the first episode unfolded, Lightweight for Team McGregor, Nate Jennerman was knocked out by Team Chandler’s, Roosevelt Roberts, in just 9 seconds. With the first loss coming to Team McGregor, it sets the stage for a very intense season.

The episode began with trash-talking between McGregor and Chandler, with McGregor coming into the gym to meet Chandler before the fighters. “What is the Mystic Mike prediction,” McGregor asks. Chandler responded by saying, “Second round knockout, giving you my heavy shots in the first round”. Both veterans setting the tone for the rest of the season.

The first fight was a display of quickness and trajectory, as Roosevelt Roberts’ jab landed clean on the jaw of Nate Jennerman, as Jennerman fell backwards unconscious, with Roberts landing hammerfists to put the final nail in the coffin, as he moves forward in the competition. The loss didn’t just send shockwaves through McGregor’s camp, but to Dana White as well, who was sitting in attendance, saying, “Wow!” in amazement.

This defeat became a pivotal moment, challenging McGregor’s coaching style, leaving critics to wonder if McGregor still has what it takes to continue fighting.

Throughout the episode, fans witnessed the raw emotions of the fighter, ranging from disappointment, to renewed determination. McGregor, known for his ability to bounce back from setbacks, gathered his team, reminding them that setbacks are merely opportunities for growth. His words left his team inspired, telling them to dig deep, and rise above defeat.

The first episode of The Ultimate Fighter: McGregor vs Chandler, showcased the fierce competition, and the high stakes that come with being a part of the show. The loss suffered by McGregor’s team early on added an unexpected twist to the season, amplifying the intensity, and setting the stage for an epic battle between the former lightweight champion of the world, Conor McGregor, and a future lightweight champion, Michael Chandler.

As this season progresses, the fighters from both teams, will continue to hone their craft, and face off against their opponents, while striving for their main goal, obtaining a contract from the UFC. With McGregor’s team taking the first loss in the competition, the pressure mounts for them to bounce back, and prove themselves the victors. Fans can expect more drama between the teams, incredible fights, and of course, the dream fight between McGregor and Chandler.

Episode 2, will begin at 10:00 pm EST, Tuesday, June 6. Who will become the Ultimate Fighter?