If there were one thing that Rampage has wished for on the backend of his career, it would be a returning fight in “The Land of the Rising Sun”.  Jackson broke onto the international mixed martial arts scene when he debuted in PRIDE Fighting Championships in July of 2001.  This is where Rampage made a name for himself, especially with his spectacular knockouts of fighters such as Kevin Randleman and Ikuhisa Minowa, and most famously his slam knockout of Ricardo Arona.  After six years of an exciting career in Pride, Rampage debuted in the UFC after the two promotions converged.  Rampage made quick work of this opportunity with his second stoppage victory over UFC legend Chuck Liddell, which simultaneously earned him the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.  He subsequently avenged both of his losses to Wanderlei Silva in Pride with a vicious knockout just three minutes into the first round.
 
  Rampage Jackson had arguably his final chance at winning the UFC Light Heavyweight championship for the second time at UFC 135, unfortunately for Rampage; The current champion Jon Jones prevailed and submitted him in the fourth round. 
 
With a trip to Japan on the radar for the UFC, Rampage was the first fighter to jump on board and campaign for a position at the event.  His wish was granted and Rampage Jackson drew The Ultimate Fighter Season 8 winner Ryan Bader as his opponent.  From my point of view, this seemed like a mismatch and the fight quickly leaned in favor of Rampage.
 
However Rampage’s motivation towards sport of mixed martial arts has come into question as of late.  After leaving the sport for over a year to pursue a career in acting, fans weren’t sure if Rampage would ever return.  He returned to moderate success, it would not be overly surprising if Quentin Jackson decides to retire following his fight at UFC 144.  He hasn’t seemed like himself over the last two years with just one knockout over the span of his past six fights.  The atmosphere is nearly perfect for Rampage end his career, he is fighting in front of the fans who he has grown to love and miss since the UFC and Pride merged to become one.  Rampage has had one of the most illustrious MMA careers to date.  It would be a shame to see Rampage called it quits; though it cannot be placed out of the realm of possibility.  What better way to end a career than with a victory in Japan for Mr. Jackson?
 
Quinton “Rampage” Jackson makes his return to the Saitama Super Arena this Saturday February the 25^th; where he will take on Ryan “Darth” Bader on the main card.


Photos Courtesy of Zuffa LLC

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