The Ultimate Fighter 5 was, arguably, one of the best seasons of the UFC reality show since its inception, perhaps even THE best.  The fighters proved to be a bunch of relatively crazy people (but in a fun way!) and a number of the fights were incredibly entertaining.  The talent pool was deep; all you need to do is look at the four semi-finalists.  Once you add to that the under-current of anticipation for the eventual rematch between the two coaches, BJ Penn and Jens Pulver, you have a very successful Ultimate Fighter season. 

SpikeTV and the UFC announced the finale fight card last week and, while full of solid boutts, there are a few disappointing aspects.  First, most of the not-kicked-out-of-the-house contestants will be fighting, but none except the two finalists will appear on the television broadcast.  Isn't that a little silly?  Here's a look at the extended fight card, first with those fights that probably won't be aired on television. 

Non-SpikeTV Fights

(of course, these fights may be inserted into the broadcast if time permits)

Brandon Melendez Vs. Joe Lauzon

Andy Wang Vs. Cole Miller

Rob Emerson Vs. Gray Maynard

Allen Berube Vs. Leonard Garcia

Brian Geraghty Vs. Matt Wiman


The two fights I'd love to see out of all these are the Melendez/Lauzon and Emerson/Maynard bouts.  Dana White really seems to be high on Rob Emerson despite his two losses on The Ultimate Fighter this season.  Gray will be no easy match, however.  Lauzon will be out for blood versus Melendez and should win easily.


Main Card

Jens Pulver Vs. BJ Penn

Manny Gamburyan Vs. Nathan Diaz

Roger Huerta Vs. Doug Evans

Floyd Sword Vs. Thales Leites


Like many others, I can't wait for BJ Penn to wallop on Jens Pulver.  Should be fun.  As for the final Ultimate Fighter bout between Manny Gamburyan and Nate Diaz?  I've got to go with Diaz.  What do you think?  Which fight are you most looking forward to?


-Oscar Dahl, BuddyTV Senior Writer


(Source, Image Courtesy of The UFC)