Former UFC champion Rampage Jackson is eyeing a comeback in 2023. Find out who he wants to face in his MMA return and the motivation behind his weight loss journey. Read more about it here.
Former UFC champion Rampage Jackson is set to make a highly anticipated return to the octagon with the new promotion UFL . The legendary MMA light heavyweight fighter has been out of the fighting scene since 2019 but has his sights set on a comeback in 2023. Jackson, known for his grudge-holding nature, already has a target in mind for his next opponent.
A Rivalry Revisited
Rampage Jackson’s rivalry with fellow former UFC champion Rashad Evans is well-known, but it’s another athlete from Evans’ team that Jackson wants to face in his MMA return: Darrill Schoonover. Back in 2009, as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights, Jackson clashed with Evans’ team throughout the season, resulting in one of the show’s most infamous moments when Jackson destroyed a door in frustration. However, it was his interactions with Schoonover that left a lasting impact, with mutual taunting and heated verbal altercations. Now, years later, Jackson is still not over it and is eager to settle the score inside the octagon.
A Desire for Destruction
When asked about his next fight, Jackson made it clear that he doesn’t want to face anyone he likes. He wants to destroy his opponent, whoever it may be. His grudge against Schoonover runs deep, and he’s determined to prove his superiority. ‘I don’t let stuff like that die,’ Jackson said of Schoonover. ‘He tried to punk me. But [fellow TUF castmate] Brendan Schaub said that he doesn’t think Darrill would be down to fight.’ Jackson’s words reveal his relentless mindset and his hunger for victory.
A Weighty Motivation
Despite facing criticism about his weight, Jackson found motivation in the negativity. MMA fans commented on his posts, criticizing his physique, but instead of getting discouraged, Jackson used it as fuel to make a change. ‘I was just getting tired of being fat,’ he admitted. ‘And I want to say something to everybody that’s out there listening: Bring back fat-shaming. America, we’ve gotten so soft.’ The comments pushed him to take action, and he transformed his body, shedding the extra weight. Jackson’s dedication and resilience are evident in his determination to prove his doubters wrong.
Return to the Heavyweight Division
If Jackson makes his return, he plans to compete in the heavyweight division. Despite the criticism he faced about his weight, he sees it as an opportunity to prove himself. The 45-year-old fighter is ready to make a statement and show the world that age is just a number. With his renewed motivation and drive, Jackson is prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
UFL : A New Beginning
Jackson’s comeback would take place under the UFL (United Fight League) banner, a new promotion led by Harrison Rogers. Jackson, along with other former UFC champions such as Frank Mir and Tito Ortiz, has been working as an ambassador for the organization. UFL sets itself apart from other promotions by prioritizing fighter welfare, offering medical and life insurance, as well as stock options as part of their compensation package. Jackson’s decision to join forces with UFL showcases his admiration for Rogers and his commitment to supporting fighters.
In his last fight, Jackson suffered a TKO loss to Fedor Emelianenko at Bellator 237 in December 2019. However, his previous victory over Wanderlei Silva at Bellator 206 in September 2018 proved that he still has what it takes to compete at a high level. With his sights set on a comeback, Rampage Jackson is ready to make a statement and leave a lasting impact on the MMA world.
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| Rampage Jackson vs. Darrill Schoonover |
reference: bloodyelbow.com
