Cruz vs Faber set for coaching TUF 15 on FXDecember 6, 2011 by Joe Rocha

Likely a no-brainer decision for the UFC as they have officially announced that bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz will be coaching on “The Ultimate Fighter” season 15 against long time rival Urijah Faber, prior to their bout. The show will set precedence as it premieres on FX for the first time live starting March 9th with a two-hour episode to kick-off the event.

“We’re producing ground-breaking television with The Ultimate Fighter LIVE and we can’t wait to kick this season off with FX in March,” UFC President Dana White said. “It’s going to be can’t-miss TV. Dominick Cruz and Urijah Faber are two incredible personalities who also happen to be two of the best fighters in the world. They genuinely dislike each other and I expect this to make for the best season yet.”

“We believe that Dana and Lorenzo (Fertitta), along with Executive Producer Craig Piligian, have come up with exciting new changes to the format of The Ultimate Fighter that will expand and grow the series,” said Chuck Saftler, Executive Vice President, FX Networks. “The fact that the fights at the end of each episode will now be televised live is certain to create a sense of urgency for UFC fans. Furthermore, the move of TUF to Friday nights will provide a great ratings boost to the network.”

The season looks to be a welcoming new formate while still keeping the drama between coaches that has made for the best seasons. Faber and Cruz have had a long documented feud that is set to be finally settled as they end a trilogy.