Quinton “Rampage” Jackson’s UFC swan song will come in Brazil.
The former UFC light-heavyweight champion, who has repeatedly insisted that his next fight in the UFC will be his last, has agreed to face Glover Teixeira on Teixeira’s home turf at UFC 153.
The pairing was first reported by Brazil’s SporTV.com, the online arm of UFC’s Brazilian broadcast partner, Globo.
Jackson (32-10) has had 11 fights in the octagon since his February 2007 debut, going 7-4 during that time. He’s lost his last two fights, losing to divisional champ Jon Jones in a UFC 135 title bout and then dropping a decision to Ryan Bader at UFC 144.
He’s grown increasingly frustrated with the UFC in recent months, however, and through his Twitter account, has said on multiple occasions said that he would finish out the terms of his existing deal and then move on. The Teixeira fight represents the last bout on his contract.
At least he goes out with a style matchup that is most definitely to his liking.
Jackson has repeatedly railed against alleged “point-fighters,” saying he prefers matchups with other striking-savvy competitors. Teixeira (18-2) certainly fits that mold, with 11 of his 18 career wins by knockout. He does have a well-rounded overall game, as he won his UFC debut by arm triangle choke at UFC 146.
Afterward, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua reportedly turned down an opportunity to face him, and now it appears Jackson will take the open slot.
UFC 153 takes place from HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro. It is yet unknown whether Jackson-Teixeira will take main event honors, or if that will go to another bout.