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In this miniseries spinoff of Iron Chef America, eight of the US's top chefs competed for the title of "The Next Iron Chef" in a six-week contest taped in several of the world's best kitchens. Each episode consisted of a different challenge: "Speed and Artistry", "Simplicity and Innovation", "Resourcefulness", "Create Under Pressure", "Lead and Inspire" and "Attain Greatness." Presiding over the competition as "chairman" was martial-arts film star Mark Dacascos, with culinary expert and best-selling author Alton Brown providing commentary. The winner was determined by a panel of judges consisting of New York City restauranteur Donatella Arpaia, freelance journalist Michael Ruhlman and Bon Appetit's restaurant editor Andrew Knowlton. The Next Iron Chef made its Food Network debut on October 7, 2007.