A VENUE for UK fighters wanting to appear on The Ultimate Fighter 9 reality show has been announced.

The UFC's UK president Marshall Zelaznik told SunSport tryouts for TUF 9 will be held in London at Earl's Court on Monday October 20.

Successful applicants are urged to get to the venue early as demand to appear on the show is expected to be high.

Victory in the Ultimate Fighter TV series helped launch the careers of former winners Forrest Griffin, Rashad Evans and Michael Bisping, but Zelaznki insists anyone fortunate enough to get into the UFC house can launch themselves into the big-time.

Zelaznik said: "Guys who come out of the Ultimate Fighter house, even if they don't win, all leave as better fighters. It's going to be a great opportunity for people who want to showcase their MMA talents top put themselves in the spotlight.

"Guys like Keith Jardine, Stephan Bonnar and Kenny Florian weren't victorious in the seasons they appeared in, but nobody can question the impact these guys have made in the UFC."

British superstar Bisping - who won TUF 3 - IS tipped to make an appearance at the event - which takes place just two days after his UFC 89 clash with Chris Leben.

Anyone wishing to take part in the auditions for TUF 8 should log on to the official UFC website to download an application form and then post their entry to: BCM, Box 2443, London, WC1N 3XX

For more information, log on to www.uk.ufc.com