American Ninja Warrior Season 17: Where returning legends meet rising stars in Vegas

Get ready, ninja fans! American Ninja Warrior is back for its seventeenth season, and this time, it’s going all-in on Las Vegas. For the first time, every round of the competition, from qualifiers to semifinals to the national finals, will take place entirely in Vegas. That means the city’s bright lights will shine on all the intense action, and the excitement will be turned up to eleven.

Host Matt Iseman shared what makes this season special:

“We’re paying homage to the past, we brought back some classic ninjas, we brought back some classic obstacles.”

If you’re a longtime fan, that’ll strike a chord. But the big twist? The national finals now feature high-stakes head-to-head racing, upping the competition to a whole new level.

Co-host Akbar Gbajabiamila put it this way:

“It’s the finals like we’ve never seen before. The buzz is in the air that there’s a new season format.”

So expect the unexpected and get ready for some thrilling matchups.

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What to expect from American Ninja Warrior season 17

This season, American Ninja Warrior is bringing together the best ninjas from all generations. The age range is wide, with competitors spanning from 15 to 72 years old, demonstrating that the ninja spirit doesn’t have an expiration date.

Akbar Gbajabiamila reflected on the show's longevity:

“You know, you talk about Season 17, that’s a big number. But I think it speaks to the power of the athletes and the stories that we’ve been able to tell.”

The show isn’t just about physical challenges, it’s about the human stories behind every climb, jump, and swing.

Obstacles also get a special shoutout this season. Co-host Zuri Hall mentioned,

“What’s really cool is that we’re bringing back some of the obstacles from days gone by.”

So, alongside new challenges, fans can expect a dose of nostalgia.

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The new head-to-head national finals and extreme obstacles

The national finals are where American Ninja Warrior really cranks up the intensity. This year, the competition introduces a bracket-style tournament featuring side-by-side, head-to-head races. This fresh format adds a whole new layer of excitement and pressure.

Matt Iseman explained the thrill:

“The big thing is the national finals is all head-to-head racing.”

Watching two ninjas compete directly against each other ramps up the stakes and offers viewers a more dynamic showdown.

On top of that, the obstacles have been dialed up in difficulty. The courses are not only more extreme but also include fan-favorite challenges from previous seasons. This combination tests competitors’ skills, speed, and endurance like never before.

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A shoutout to the ninjas, and the brave attempts from others

While the spotlight is on the athletes, the American Ninja Warrior team is known for being supportive and encouraging. Even local personalities like Extreme Jose from KING 5 Evening Team have given the course a shot, though not with the greatest results.

Akbar Gbajabiamila joked,

“I try to hook you guys up, I tried to give you the tips, but you weren’t listening. That was your fault, not mine.”

It’s a playful reminder that this course isn’t for the faint of heart, and it takes more than enthusiasm to conquer.

Season 17 promises to showcase a wide range of competitors, from legendary ninjas making their return to fresh new faces eager to prove themselves. Whether you’re watching for the stories, the skill, or the sheer spectacle, there’s something for everyone.

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When and where to catch American Ninja Warrior season 17

Mark your calendars! American Ninja Warrior Season 17 premieres on Monday, June 2 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. If you prefer streaming, the next day, the episodes will be available on Peacock.

This season promises not just intense competition but a celebration of the show’s rich history, the inspiring athletes, and the thrilling Vegas backdrop. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the ninja craze, there’s plenty to get excited about.

As Akbar Gbajabiamila puts it,

“The buzz is in the air.”

So get ready to cheer, gasp, and maybe even try some ninja moves of your own.

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American Ninja Warrior season 17 is shaping up to be a must-watch. With returning legends, rising stars, classic obstacles, and a fresh format, this Vegas-based competition brings all the thrills you expect, and then some.