While it might have taken a while, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson has finally landed a spot on the main card at UFC 144.
Jackson was originally left off of the event, leaving the former UFC light heavyweight champion feeling upset with the UFC. But, due to his drawing power and popularity, Jackson was ultimately offered a chance to compete.
Jackson has remained a favorite with the Japanese fans since competing in PRIDE FC from 2001-2006. It was there where he established himself as one the promotion’s top stars, facing some of the world’s best fighters in Chuck Liddell, Ricardo Arona, Mauricio “Shogun” Rua and Wanderlei Silva.
Jackson’s tirade might have forced the UFC to react and meet his demands, but he believes the UFC isn’t happy with his approach.
“I had to fight and complain and b—- to my manager,” Jackson told Japanese media during a UFC 144 press conference earlier this week. “Now I think the representatives of UFC are upset with me a little bit, but ask me, do I care?”
Jackson will meet Ryan Bader in the co-main event, which will surely be one of the most anticipated bouts on the card due to Jackson’s presence and reputation with the Japanese crowd. “Rampage” has always had a passion for the Japanese culture and said he prefers competing in Japan opposed to the United States.
Jackson fell short in his title bout to Jon Jones at UFC 135, suffering just his third loss in the UFC, but he hopes to rebound with a win over Bader. Perhaps more importantly, he wants to put on an entertaining bout.
“I’m all about putting on an exciting fight in Japan,” he said. “One thing I love about Japanese fans, and why I love them the most, is that they don’t care if you win or lose. All they care is if you have samurai spirit, that you put on a good fight. That’s why Japanese fans are my favorite.”
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