Spike TV will debut a reality show this month in which 16 men compete for a contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championships, the no-holds-barred arena fighting league. “The Ultimate Fighter” premieres Jan. 17 and is produced by Craig Piligian (“American Chopper,” “Ghost Hunters”).

The series includes 13 hour-long episodes, culminating in a two-hour finale. “Guys have never seen a reality show like this before,” said Jim Burns, senior VP of sports and specials for Spike TV. “The curtain will be lifted on the intense, high-action world of the UFC.”

The competitors all are athletes from various disciplines. The series is co-hosted by recording artist and model Willa Ford and UFC President Dana White.