The great thing about "The Ultimate Fighter" series, as with any good 'reality' show, is the growing anticipation that comes with each passing week.

With three weeks already behind us, the thumping TUF theme rap seems to sound better with every new episode. The dramatic tone of this series is always emphasized right from the get-go when we are re-introduced to each cast member, a splattering of blood accentuating their first names only.

As episode 4 begins, we revisit last week's fight, Jesse Taylor's submission victory over Mike Dolce. Members from both teams talk over highlights of the fight, giving their insights on just what went down. The quick re-cap ends with TEAM FORREST fighter Cale Yarbrough reminding us just where the two teams stand, "Team Forrest controls the ball".

For anyone who reads Mike Dolce's blog at MMA Weekly.com, then you know that one of the perks of the TUF house, is that the producers supply the fighters with just about any supplies they want, including all the alcohol their hearts desire. Jesse Taylor wastes no time enjoying this perk, as he pops open a Heineken to celebrate his hard fought victory.

He seems to enjoy a few more than just that one, because he has an awfully hard time figuring out how to put a fallen shade back on the front door. Dante Rivera, one of the more personable fellas on the show gets a good laugh out of Taylor's antics, but chalks it up to him just being a big kid inside.

With the first fight out of the way and everyone settling in, everyone is pretty relaxed, especially Matt Riddle. Riddle is actually more than relaxed, he's downright "chipper", a nickname that will soon stick to him.

Riddle is still riding high from his devastating one punch KO from over Dan Simmler in episode 2. With his goofy grin, and his even goffier wrist snaps, he starts riding Dante, which leads to a humorous back and forth between the two that ends with:

Dante, "If you ever beat me, I'll retire"
Riddle, "You better get your shoes bronzed then"

You get the feeling that their banter is only beginning.

TEAM RAMPAGE TRAINING

Coach Rampage Jackson is riding his troops while they pound UFC dummies on the mat. All his fighters look like they're giving a Grade-A effort.

Then Rampage adds to what should soon be a classic CD of one-liners. He starts cpmplaining about how cold it is in the gym.

"I'll bet they took the heat out and they'll put it back when Team brown nosers train".