Kingdom MMA: Did any UFC fighter feature on the popular TV series?

'Kingdom' was a mainstream TV show that followed the life of fictional MMA fighter, Alvey Kulina. He became a trainer after retirement and trains his sons, Jonathan and Nate, as well as a host of other fighters. The cast includes Frank Grillo, Nick Jonas, Jonathan Tucker, Matt Lauria and Kiele Sanchez, among other notable names.

Given that 'Kingdom' was an MMA show at heart, it would be remiss if we didn't mention that a few MMA personalities do make appearances. In terms of UFC fighters, Matt Hughes Cub Swanson, Heather Jo Clark and Christos Giagos all play short roles. In many cases, they play characters that fight the leads played by Grillo, Jonas, Tucker and Natalie Martinez of Death Race fame.

Watch how the cast and crew of Kingdom prepared for the MMA scenes here:

Apart from fighters, a few different MMA personalities make appearances. Referees Keith Peterson and Jason Herzog both play referees on the show as well. Coach Greg Jackson makes an appearance, while former fighters Jay Hieron and Frank Trigg also play small roles. Bryan Callen, a comedian and friend of MMA personalities Joe Rogan and Brendan Schaub, and one half of the Fighter and the Kid podcast, also plays a role in the show.

Matt Hughes took on Frank Grillo in front of the camera for 'Kingdom'

Arguably the most prestigious fighter to appear in 'Kingdom', Matt Hughes faced off against Alvey Kulina, the character played by Frank Grillo, inside the cage. Hughes played himself in the show and goes to war with Kulina in a back-and-forth brawl. Ultimately, Hughes lost the bout to Kulina in a blood and guts affair.

Watch as Matt Hughes faces Alvey Kulina, played by Frank Grillo here: