Michael Bisping Reflects on Rival Coaches from The Ultimate Fighter

WASHINGTON – Michael Bisping has a rich legacy with The Ultimate Fighter, having not only won the third season but also serving as a coach for three different seasons. His debut as a coach took place in 2009, when he led Team United Kingdom against Dan Henderson's Team U.S. in season nine. Bisping returned to the coaching role in 2011, this time facing off against Jason Miller. Fast forward 15 years, and he has just concluded his latest season, teaming up with friend and fellow retired fighter Daniel Cormier.

When asked about his experiences with rival coaches, Bisping had some clear favorites. "Dan Henderson wasn't annoying at all," he stated in an interview with MMA Junkie. "He's a very level-headed guy." While he expressed admiration for Cormier, he also noted, "DC's awesome. He's the man, but he picks his times. He wants it like this. He wants it like that." However, Bisping did not hold back when it came to Jason 'Mayhem' Miller, admitting, "Being around him for that long, I couldn't wait to fight him. But wish him all the best. That was a long time ago." Bisping experienced mixed results against these rivals, suffering a knockout loss to Henderson but defeating Miller by TKO.

The dynamic of coaching against Cormier differs from his previous experiences, as the two are friends, retired athletes, and compete in different weight classes, eliminating the possibility of a fight. Bisping also expressed his enthusiasm about the talent pool on the current season, stating, "The talent is so good... I'm like, what can I show these guys?" He highlighted the impressive backgrounds of the fighters, including a four-time jiu-jitsu world champion and exceptional wrestlers from various strong wrestling cultures. "These guys came in, and they've been doing MMA since they were like six, seven years old," he remarked. "Me and DC had some fun, you know. I lost my hair through stress, maybe. I got it back, though. Don't worry."