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Daniel Cormier has assembled a well-rounded coaching staff for The Ultimate Fighter 33, and one of his most surprising additions is current WWE superstar Julius Creed, also known as Jacob Kasper.
Kasper, who appeared on WWE’s Monday Night Raw just a day before his role on TUF 33 was revealed, joins Cormier’s team to help train the competing fighters. In WWE, he wrestles alongside his real-life brother, Drew Kasper (Brutus Creed), as part of the tag team American Made.
Despite his current focus on professional wrestling, Kasper boasts an impressive amateur wrestling background. Hailing from Ohio, he attended Duke University, where he became a two-time NCAA All-American. He also attempted to qualify for the U.S. Olympic wrestling team in 2016. His connection with Cormier dates back to a previous training camp when he helped the former UFC two-division champion prepare for his fight against Jon Jones.
It remains uncertain how Kasper will balance his WWE commitments with his coaching role on TUF 33. As a member of the Monday Night Raw roster, his typical schedule includes performances on Mondays and premium live events on Saturdays, potentially creating a demanding workload.
Beyond Kasper’s involvement, Cormier has enlisted other notable figures for his coaching staff. UFC veteran Michael Chiesa joins the team, bringing valuable Octagon experience. Additionally, two highly respected MMA coaches, Bob Cook from American Kickboxing Academy and John Wood from Syndicate MMA, will provide strategic insight.
Rounding out the coaching staff are Cormier’s longtime boxing coach Rosendo Sanchez and accomplished kickboxing veteran Tiago Beowulf.
TUF 33 features Cormier and Chael Sonnen as rival coaches, overseeing a cast of men’s flyweights and welterweights. With such a diverse and accomplished group of coaches, the upcoming season promises to be an exciting and highly competitive one.