By Paul Fladten of US Combat Sports

There's a new face on The Ultimate Fighter roster and odds are it's smiling.

Wisconsin native and Team Quest fighter Sam Alvey has been named as one of the upcoming participants of "The Ultimate Fighter 16" which will feature 32 welterweights vying for the chance to join the stacked 170-pound welterweight class of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Having previously spent time in the light heavyweight and middleweight divisions Alvey dropped more than 30-pounds in as many days to make weight for the competition. The Bellator veteran holds an impressive record of 19-4 (1 NC) and despite being 26 is still one of the most experienced fighters on the roster.

Beginning his professional career back in July of 2008, Alvey quickly rose to the top of Wisconsin's rankings with a granite chin, dangerous hands, and an underrated takedown defense that often left him in the dominant position.

Some of the early highlights to "Smile'N" Sam's career include a comeback victory over Justin Lemke, a changing of the guard first round knockout over Pat O'Malley, and a gritty five-round decision win against Demian Decorah. The wins helped to supplant Alvey's legacy in Wisconsin's local scene and earned him the state's Fighter of the Year award in 2009.

In the first 14 fights of his career Alvey only dropped two bouts - one to Caleb Nelson and the other to Gerald Meerschaert - both of which were awarded Fight of the Year honors in Wisconsin. And following both defeats the former Metz Combat Club fighter came back stronger than ever.

But never has the skill and determination of Alvey been showcased more than in his split decision win over Karl Amoussou at Bellator 45. Alvey suffered a massive cut early in the fight yet hung on to earn a split decision win in the opening round of Bellator's tournament.

Since his win over Amoussou the grinning gladiator has went 4-2 with wins coming over Lucas Lopes, Daniel Almeida, Eddie Larrea, and Salvador Augusto Montano. Over the past four years it has been nearly impossible to find a mixed martial artist that has taken on more fights in more countries than Alvey as he continuously traveled into opponent's backyards and often came out the winner.

Despite the fact that he has since moved his training camp westward to Team Quest, Alvey personifies the grit and heart of Wisconsin fight camps. He has more than put in his time on the local scene and has earned his spot onto The Ultimate Fighter. The pre-taped series will begin on September 14 and be aired for 13-weeks on FX each Friday night.