Joe Stevenson talks about new experience in old situation on 'TUF 25: Redemption'

“The Ultimate Fighter” returns tonight, and the new season comes with a special theme: “Redemption.”

The show is filled with fighters who once appeared on it – even some past winners. But after some tumbles for some, they’re getting another chance at greatness on the show with a $250,000 prize at the end.

Joe Stevenson is one of those fighters. He won Season 2 of the show as a welterweight way back in November 2005. On “TUF 25,” Stevenson gets his chance at redemption.

“It’s a different experience – 12 years is a long time,” Stevenson recently told MMAjunkie about the difference between his first stint on the show and now. “Think about it – I have a 16-year-old son. The last time I did it, he was 4. Not only has the show changed, but the world has changed. That’s the amazing thing.”

Stevenson had a 16-fight run in the UFC and even fought for the lightweight title. But after four fights outside the promotion since he was let go in 2011, this was his shot to get back.

It also was his chance to do things differently than last time since he’s a different person now than in 2005.

“I think originally, I may have just not cared,” Stevenson said. “I was drinking a lot back then in my life. I’ve been sober for four and a half years now – one day at a time. I didn’t care – that’s a dangerous person. Now I’m getting to experience new feelings, new emotions toward this experience, and it’s amazing.”

What will “TUF 25” have in store for Stevenson? Check out the video above to hear more from him.

Then don’t miss the season’s debut episode tonight at 10 p.m. ET on FS1. And watch MMAjunkie for weekly recaps of each episode, as well as video recaps featuring fighters and coaches the day after each episode.

And for more on the UFC’s upcoming schedule, stay tuned to the UFC Rumors section of the site.