Following a lengthy legal battle, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Bellator MMA have come to terms on a new contract. Bellator’s official statement reads:
“Following an amicable agreement to settle the litigation between the two parties, the always entertaining and exciting Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is returning to Bellator,” the statement read.
“Bellator MMA is thrilled to have “Rampage,” one of the most recognizable fighters in the history of the sport, joining a very competitive light heavyweight division featuring champion Liam McGeary, Phil Davis, King Mo, Tito Ortiz, Emanuel Newton, Linton Vassell among others.”
Jackson last fought for Bellator in 2014, defeating Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal in the finals of the season 10 light heavyweight tournament. Following that contest, he went on to sign a contract with the UFC in December, prompting a legal battle with the fighter, the UFC and Bellator.
Bellator took things to the courts to gain an injunction that would keep Jackson from fighting at UFC 186 against Fabio Maldonado last April. However, that was overturned and Jackson fought, besting Maldonado for his 36th pro win.
Jackson had claimed that Bellator was in breach of contract and that allowed him to sign the deal with the UFC and end his relationship with the Viacom-opened company.
During his long career, Jackson has earned victories over the likes of Chuck Liddell, Dan Henderson, Wanderlei Silva and Lyoto Machida. He was named the 2007 “Fight of the Year” by Sherdog following his victories vs. Liddell and Henderson.
In 2008, he lost the UFC title to Forrest Griffin after the two were coaches on The Ultimate Fighter. He returned later that year to best Wanderlei Silva and added a 2009 vs. Keith Jardine to his resume before finally squaring off with rival Rashad Evans. He suffered a decision loss to “Suga,” but again rebounded with wins over Machida and Matt Hamill to secure another shot at the title.
Jon Jones started Jackson on a three-fight losing streak, earning a submission win in 2011 over him. He also lost via decision to Ryan Bader and Glover Teixeira before completing his UFC contract and signing with Bellator.
