The series was officially announced by the UFC in May 2012.[3] The name The Smashes is a play on the 130-year-old cricket rivalry between England and Australia called "The Ashes."[1] The UFC held open tryouts during June 2012. The casting call was for Lightweight and Welterweight fighters who are at least 21 years old and have a minimum of two wins in three professional fights.

On 12 July 2012, Dana White announced that the coaches for the season would be Ross Pearson and George Sotiropoulos to represent the UK and Australia respectively.