UFC Announces That They've Re-Signed Quinton “Rampage” Jackson

The Ultimate Fighting Championship announced during the UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Dollaway broadcast on Saturday that the organization had re-signed former light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.

“You guys have no idea how excited I am to be back. I just want to come back and come to the big show,” said Jackson. “The thing about Rampage is, Rampage always comes to excite the fans. I love the fans. I just want to give them exciting fights, so I’m very excited to be back. My actions are going to speak louder than my words.”

SEE ALSO: A Tweet Set Rampage Jackson's UFC Return in Motion

Jackson (35-11) made his UFC debut at UFC 67 in February 2007 after logging an impressive resume in the Japanese-based Pride organization. After knocking out Marvin Eastman in his debut, Jackson dethroned the then-champion Chuck Liddell. He defended the title with a unanimous decision win over Dan Henderson at UFC 75. Jackson was defeated by Forrest Griffin in his next outing, losing the title.

Following three consecutive losses, Jackson left the organization. He signed a multi-year deal with Bellator MMA in June 2013. He competed three times inside the Bellator cage, winning them all. He won the Bellator Season 10 Light Heavyweight Tournament in his last outing by defeating Muhammed Lawal by unanimous decision. The win earned him a shot at the Bellator light heavyweight title.

Jackson is reportedly still under contract with Bellator MMA, and the company is prepared to fight to keep him. Bellator president Scott Coker tweeted minutes after the announcement, “Let us be clear that Quinton Jackson is under an exclusive contract with Bellator MMA. We will protect our contractual rights.”

It appears that the two biggest mixed martial arts promotions in America are gearing up for a battle that will play out in the courts.

“This is where I belong. I belong here,” said Jackson about returning to the UFC.

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