UFC 96: Rashad Evans vs Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson main event in the works
by Jesse Holland on Jan 14, 2009 1:30 PM EST
159 comments
MMAmania.com can confirm that a main event title fight between newly crowned UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Rashad Evans (13-0-1) and former 205-pound kingpin Quinton Jackson (29-7) could be added to the UFC 96 card at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, on March 7.
Perhaps the only thing currently standing in the way is time -- both fighters face relatively tight turnarounds (nine weeks) since their most recent winning performances at UFC 92: "The Ultimate 2008" on Dec. 27.
If the showdown is eventually booked, it would be yet another attempt by the promotion to deliver UFC fans in the "Buckeye State" -- who appear to be spoiled with colossal main events -- another exciting showdown to cheer about.
UFC 82, the most recent pay-per-view (PPV) event to be held there, was a star-studded card that was packed with talent from the bottom up, featuring the 185-pound showdown between UFC Middleweight Champion, Anderson Silva, and the last man to hold the Pride FC 183-pound belt, Dan Henderson.
In addition, Randy Couture blew the lid of the Nationwide Arena back at UFC 68 when he returned from retirement to score and improbable win over Tim Sylvia to capture the heavyweight title at the age of 43.
Despite the opportunity to reclaim his light heavyweight title, "Rampage" was initially lukewarm to the idea of facing Evans in his first fight since flatlining Wanderlei Silva with a thunderous left hook at UFC 92: "The Ultimate 2008."
The new-look Jackson, poised and confident thanks to a new training camp at Wolfslair in the UK, had his sights set on former title holder and opposing coach from The Ultimate Fighter 7 Forrest Griffin.
Griffin scored an unlikely unanimous decision win over Jackson at UFC 86 back in July. This was after Jackson toppled Marvin Eastman, Chuck Liddell and Dan Henderson to reign supreme in the talent-rich 205-pound class. Jackson still feels like he was robbed by the judges and wants to prove that he is indeed the superior fighter.
It would have been a big money rematch, but more than likely not as big as a fight against "Sugar" now that Evans bested Griffin at UFC 92. Griffin also broke his left hand in the second round of that fight and apparently needed to have pins surgically inserted into his hand to help expedite the healing process.
In short, Jackson is the next in line for a shot at the gold with Griffin on the bench until at least the summer while the two other worthy challengers Thiago Silva and Lyoto Machida — set to collide at UFC 94: "St. Pierre vs Penn 2″ — determine who will be waiting for him should he prevail.
For the latest UFC 96 fight card and rumors click here.
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Wow, I can’t t for this! This is probablymy ual most antcipated fight of 2009 along with GSP/Penn.
I doubt that Jackson will take a fight on 9 weeks notice though.
This fight, GSP/Penn and Lesnar/Mir II… what a STACKED start to 2009!!!
Check out my vid: rate, comment, subscribe and all that rubbish ;)
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=kc7o1HdR2iY&feature=channel_page
by Adam on Jan 14, 2009 1:33 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
machida gets the shaft! again…
i say if i’m machida and i beat t.silva i don’t fight anymore till it’s a title shot
by mikeybear2009 on Jan 14, 2009 2:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If this was in July, I would agree with you. This is less than 2 months away. Read first, post second.
by c-war on Jan 14, 2009 2:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
doesn’t matter c-war. machida has beat bonnar, tito ortiz, bj penn…. and he is undeafted, can you say rampage really is next for a title shot Hell-NO!
I say the winner of silva/machida gets a title shot.
nuff said you can’t argue that!
by mikeybear2009 on Jan 15, 2009 12:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
machida beat tito ortiz and gets a title shot? no way silva is good but doesnt give you a shot either.. i say beat silva then someone else to get yours
by randy murders on Jan 14, 2009 2:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If Machida gets by Silva, that will give him 6 fights in the UFC in a row without losing, and he is undefeated in his MMA career. IMO that is enough to get a title shot.
by stevo on Jan 14, 2009 2:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This is BS, there is no way Rampage should get a title shot after beating silva. He should at least have to fight one more top contender. He is coming off of one win and a huge fiascal with the law. Lyoto as boring as he is should definitely get the next title shot no matter how long they have to wait to put the next title shot together.
by fighter21 on Jan 14, 2009 3:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
yes lyoto is undefeated but who has he beat in the ufc? Sam Hoger (no longer with the ufc), David Heath (no longer in the ufc), Kazuhiro Nakamura (no longer in the ufc), Sokoujou (no longer in the ufc), Tito Ortiz (no longer in the ufc whos last win against somebody not named ken shamrock was all the way back in 2006.) Does that sound deserving of a title shot to you?
Lets look at who rampage has fought in the ufc now. Marvin eastmen (no longer in the ufc), Chuck Liddell (former champ and alltime great), Dan Henderson(former pride champ and all time great), lost to Forrest Griffin (former champ), Wanderlei Silva (former pride champ and all time great)
Look at those two resumes and tell me who deserves the shot. I am not even including the business aspect of this as who would draw better im talking about nothing but their fighting resumes.
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think a couple guys have dodged Machida. I know Vera dodged him, and I think another top contender dodged him as well.
by LJ on Jan 14, 2009 3:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
according to vera he only dodged him because that fight was on short notice plus vera is nothing spectacular these days
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The only thing Rampage has done since he lost the belt is beat Wandy. None of his other fights matter because they were before he lost the belt. Machida will have 6 in a row in the UFC, a 14-0 record, including wins over BJ, Franklin, and Bonnar. That is better than a single win over a tired and worn Wandy. The only reason Rampage is getting a title shot before Machida is because of his selling power, not his ‘resume’.
And it doesnt matter if Machida’s past opponents are no longer in the UFC. Most of them are gone because Machida pwned them.
by stevo on Jan 14, 2009 3:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The one thing i am not looking forward to is the commentating and breakdown for this fight – A fight between two powerful, explosive athletes who rely on their power and explosive athleticism. I bet anyone no one will break down the intricacies of their technical skills. (Also does athleticism cancel out athleticism? Just like “well both are black belts so …”)
by NameNotRequired on Jan 14, 2009 4:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
BOut time my boy Rampage gets his belt back! THat belt was stolen from him by the judges…No one took it from him thats for sure!
Hey stevo, I love Macvhida as much as anyone, but to say that Machida has a better resume then Rampage is crackhead-ish!
by john on Jan 14, 2009 4:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Jackson should have to fight at least one more fight before he gets another shot at the title, yes he beat a lot of top dogs and he won since then he lost the belt. He needs to work his way back up the ranks and he has a lot he needs to work on (ex. boxing, wrestling, ground game) only thing the guy has is a big punch and a good chin. I personally think that Evans will run through him without him cleaning up his fight game. There was nothing skillful about his win against Silva, he landed that lucky punch and that’s all he ever does is land a lucky punch. Maybe the winner of the Silva – Machida fight doesn’t deserve the shot in some people opinion, but in my opinion if you get knocked off the top of the ladder then you need to work your way back up it. Thiago and Machida have both been climbing towards the top, so Jackson should have to make that climb, I am not saying he is at the bottom and should have to start again, I am just saying one win should not grant him the shot, also that fact that he may be jail bound doesn’t seem like he is deserving, that is all the UFC needs in the light heavyweight division another interm champion fiascle.
by Tyson Harris on Jan 14, 2009 4:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So you are only counting rampage’s fight against Wandy, stating that his other fights don’t matter because they were before he lost the belt yet you are counting fights that Machida had that weren’t in the UFC? That doesn’t make any sense. You can’t compare Machida’s record before he came to the UFC if you won’t even accept Rampage’s victories while he was in the UFC.
by joseph on Jan 14, 2009 4:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
also so all of rampages wins are by way of lucky punch. that makes sense this guys trains everyday to land those punches i wouldnt call them lucky, he is one of the top strikers in the light heavyweight division if not the best, he has great boxing very good wrestling especially takedown defense and he has great defensive bjj. Tyson Harris i dont know what the hell you are talking about.
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 4:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I never thought of it before, but now that you mention it, Rampage doesn’t have a specific skill set that he’s great at, unless brawling is a skill.
To Matt: I wouldn’t call him one of the LHW divisions best strikers at all. He’s got decent boxing, and great power and again, brawling. He doesn’t really kick or knee at all.
As for very good wrestling and takedown and bjj defense, where was that in the 2nd round of the Forrest fight? Not to mention he got himself into a guillotine and a triangle choke in that fight. Granted he escaped, but still.
Rampage is a good fighter, but he doesn’t really excel in any one area, but is good in all areas. His strengths are his power, brawling ability and strentgh.
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 6:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
would you consider chuck liddell a good striker? How about wanderlei silva?
Last time i checked he koed both of them
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 6:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
KO power does not make you a good striker. Synyster is on the dot with his analysis. Most of rampage’s grappling accumen boils down to powering out of things. His boxing is very good by MMA standards but nothing fancy except for his defensive skills.
by NameNotRequired on Jan 14, 2009 6:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
To Tyson Harris and the other Machida and Thiago Dick Riders. First of all, Rampage never Really lost the Title, doesn’t deserve a title shot yet?? Please. As far as Rampage only having a big punch and needing to work on his wrestling and shit….Did you see the fight with Dan Henderson yo?? Rampage completely controlled the world champion greco roman wrestler on the ground son. Rampages Jujitsu is MAD nice yo, and his wrestlin. Rampage is the real champion, the punch on wanderleis jaw was not luck, even Wandi said it wasn’t luck. check his youtube post fight video. Brock Lesnar would’ve got dropped by that punch. Rashad’s gonna get his ass beat, the winner of Lyoto and Thiago is gonna get there ass beat. Rampage is gonna hold the belt for a minute. Anderson Silva could be Rampage, I don’t see anyone in the light heavyweight or Heavyweight that could beat rampage
by The nigga on Jan 17, 2009 1:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Nah! No way man. Machida hasn’t beaten anyone to get a title shot. A very young Soko, Tito Ortiz, and T.Silva. While I think Thiago Silva is a badass, I don’t think a win over him translates into a title shot. And who has Thiago beaten to get a shot? H.A., Mendes, and the Machida match up.
IMO, either guy needs another high profile win over a high profile fighter before they fight for the belt.
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 3:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I say the winner of the 2 undefeated Brazilians should fight Rampage for a title-shot. That settles it, 2 birds with 1 stone.
by GodDamnMike on Jan 15, 2009 12:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I talked to the MSU staff today. This is not happening at UFC 96 so don’t get to excited.
by Tom on Jan 14, 2009 5:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Dana is a f*cking IDIOT…Machida is 5-0 and still doesn’t get a title shot. I’m a big fan of Rampage but this ain’t fair one bit.
by taturo on Jan 14, 2009 7:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I could care less if Machida ever fights for the title. He is one of my least favorite fighters to watch. Anyway, I hope Rashad knocks this moron named Rampage out. Just remember, hide the keys and energy drinks afterwards.
by El_Mexicutioner, formerly The_Mexicutioner on Jan 14, 2009 4:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rashad is going to be intimidated when he stares at Page across the cage. He knows that this will be the toughest fight of his life and he will have torespect his punching ability.
Rashad isnt going to out strike Rampage…Rampage has the best boxing defense in the LHW division. Rashad will find out what its like to be hit hard!
Rashad wont out wrestle Page.
Rashad wont submit Page.
Page has a better chin. Rashad has never even felt the type of punches that Rampage has eaten and fought through!
Not saying Rampage will walk through him,. I think it will be a very entertaining and hard fought fight. But I dont think Shad can last 25 minutes with Page
Dont mean to Knock Shad. Since he became exciting I have become a big fan, I just dont think there are 2 many dudes out there that can fight Rampage when he is READY!!!!
btw, I will bet anyone that Rashad wont be doing any showboating during this fight. He wont try that crap vs. Page cause he knows it would be lights out!
by john on Jan 14, 2009 5:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You got good points john. But I think Rashad has just reached the beginning of the peak of his career, and may hold the belt for a while. I think he will be ready and fearless against Rampage. I’ve picked agaisnt Rashad EVERY time he fought, but not this time.
Rashad TKO 3rd or 4th round.
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 6:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i can see rashad winning but i dont see him being able to finish rampage as i think this fight will most likely end via decision
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 6:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
that because you dont showboat after you lose
by SluggerCitySoldier on Jan 14, 2009 6:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This really is an intriguing match-up. I like them both!
I think I like Rampage as champion more, as he’s something of a walking spectacle. However, he may be in jail in the future, not something you want to try to smooth over as a PR exercise. :)
by Graham on Jan 14, 2009 1:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I will have a new found respect for Rashad if he can beat Rampage. His only notable win is over Forrest, and a very predictable Chuck Liddell. Rampage will most likely be the heavy favorite coming into this match. I really dont think Rashad has the skill set to beat Rampage anywhere unless he holds him down for 5 rounds. On the other hand I think Rashad may want to prove himself and stand with Rampage like Forrest did, except he will be taking a nap by the end of the first.
by c-war on Jan 14, 2009 2:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It is very possible that Rashad would beat Rampage. After the Forrest fight, I would never count Rashad out. His explosiveness is enough to get him through Rampage. Though IMO, Rampage is the more technically sound striker[check out Wanderlei fight part III]. Anyone who argues that Rashad is the better striker is out of his mind. He just has more haymakers, that’s all.
by Syd[a.k.a. "The Negation"] on Jan 14, 2009 4:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I believe Sugar is a better, well rounded fighter than Rampage. Rampage shows alot more class, while Sugar just seems like a prick, but I feel Sugar will come away with the win. I wish I could say that Rampage will win cause I like him better , but I believe he will take a loss in this matchup. W.F.M. N.J.
by Bill on Aug 6, 2009 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here is a better suggestion..why not wait till end of UFC 92, get Shogun to fight Rampage in a rematch for a non-title main event…
Rashad is just being outworked in here, he already fought in Sept, then Dec and now March? Allow the belt to settle in first Dana..
by Anonymousf*ck on Jan 14, 2009 2:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
rashad didnt take punishment in any of his fights. he will be ready.
by COR on Jan 14, 2009 2:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
First, Rashad ended both fights in the 2nd round with little to no damage. Second, why would you not want to see more championship fights?
by c-war on Jan 14, 2009 2:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So that Sugar could keep his belt longer than 2 months;
It’s a guaranteed asswhooping by Rampage
by Anger Jack on Jan 14, 2009 3:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you probably also thought it was a guaranteed asswhooping for him when he fought liddell and Griffin to right?
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, is this going to be the FIRST black vs black main event? That is a good piece of trivia.
by Adam on Jan 14, 2009 1:35 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
No one cares about that except the few who still think black people are treated unfairly.
by c-war on Jan 14, 2009 2:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
not necessarily, it is interesting from a business perspective.
the UFC is going after various cultural/ethnic groups to try to get a bigger following….huerta and mexicans, vera and the phillipines, bisping and england.
now they have a chance to try to get more black people interested in MMA. There haven’t been very many black MMA stars, especially superstars, until recently. Having two black men fight for arguably the most prestigious belt in MMA could attract new fans.
right now most of the UFC crowd is white. I don’t remember seeing many black people at the UFC event I went to or when I go watch UFC at a local buffalo wild wings. getting some diversity involved is a good thing.
by joseph on Jan 14, 2009 4:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
WAR PAGE! Get your belt back! I love it.. if this fight goes down in March that would be insane. No time to waste. Let’s get to work!! Props to the UFC .. ink it. PVV you it. I seeing it. March 7th!
by PhilQNY on Jan 14, 2009 1:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I hope these guys man up and sign the contract. None of them sustained any injuries in thier fights except Rashad’s brusied eye, which should be healed by now, and both should still be in good shape. They better fight soon! If not in March, I say this fight needs to go down by memorial day at the latest!
Wouldn’t it be a travesty if Rashad KO’d Rampage the same way he did Liddell? I sure hope that doesn’t happen and I hope its actually Rampage handing “Hasahd” is first loss….and by brutal KO. Rashad has accomplished a lot, but he needs to be knocked off his high horse.
by Chadx23 on Jan 14, 2009 4:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree completely, props to Shad for his rise to the top, but I just think the guy’s ego is getting pretty out of hand. The reason I am a huge forrest fan is because the guy is humble and just loves to fight, not to shit talk and say that they “got lucky”. Shad does the stupid ass taunt and griffin still gives the guy his props.. shad needs to be given a reality check. Rampage would be the guy to deliver.
by Chris on Jan 15, 2009 8:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Wheres brenden now saying 96 sucks? Although I’ve never been a huge fan of either guy, I can’t wait for this matchup. I’ve picked against Rashad in EVERY fight recently, so hopefully when I pick him now, he will lose! lol. Should be a great fight, capable of going into the championship rounds with a TKO. WAR RASHAD!
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 1:38 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
if this match up is put together i would say that this is definitely a good headliner
by brendan on Jan 14, 2009 2:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Really brendan? Are you sure? Personally, I’m with you and think that Babalu vs Sokodjou is WAYY better than this stupid UFC crap.
by Adam on Jan 14, 2009 2:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You think Soko/Babalu is better than this??
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i cant even post without a million douchebags getting on my nuts nowadays
by brendan on Jan 14, 2009 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
haha. You have fans brendan. You should be happy you have such an effect on so many people.
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 6:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes brendan, remember when you were on my case?hehe!
by Syd[a.k.a. "The Negation"] on Jan 14, 2009 10:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m excited about this fight i think it’s going to be a real war, but I have Rashad winning by tko or KO in the later rounds.
by subwayy2sallyy on Jan 14, 2009 1:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Rashad will run from Page until round 3, then try to score a homerun overhand right.
by Gankaho on Jan 14, 2009 2:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Should be a great fight. Too bad I can’t stand either of them. I really do want to see Rashad’s arrogant a$$ get KTFO so… Go Rampage, I guess…
by BNF on Jan 14, 2009 1:40 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
LMFAO!!! I feel the same way BNF! Its kinda weird for me to be going for Rampage! Only cause I want to see someone knock Rashads b*tch@ss out!!!!!!!!!
by JV on Jan 14, 2009 1:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If the Rampage that fought Hendo comes into the ring shows up he wins. I wasn’t that impressed with Rampage even against Wandy, his takedowns got stuffed and he wasn’t winning the exchanges. I want to see this fight because I like Rampage and hopes he gets back to the form he was in. I was indifferent towards Evans until that crotch grabbing stuff. Not the kind of spectacle that needs to happen when Dana’s trying to get MMA into New York. When you’re talking about MMA being about respect and you have someone disrespecting a fighter like that in the middle of the match it’s not good.
by Shadyone33 on Jan 14, 2009 1:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m a fan of both fighters. Rampage has always been a favorite of mine since his PRIDE days so I’m definitely going with him. I have asked this before, but why does everyone hate Rashad? This is a SPORT! Since when do players in any sport not showboat or talk smack? Is he not respectful before and after fights? What is so terrible about talkin some smack or showboating during a fight?
by Diceman on Jan 14, 2009 8:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Shads a punk and needs a harsh reality check. I’m really hoping Rampage takes his head off.
by Chris on Jan 15, 2009 8:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This is a definite “Fight of the Year” candidate
by Don on Jan 14, 2009 1:44 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
You don’t nominate Oscars before movie’s out just beacuse 2 great actors are in it.
by Lights Out on Jan 14, 2009 3:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
actually a lot of people do speculate like that.
by joseph on Jan 14, 2009 4:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
One win after losing the belt and he gets a titleshot? Who else in the UFC has gotten that?
Favoritism or just the fight that brings in the most $?
by Lester the Pimp on Jan 14, 2009 1:46 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree, the winner of the Silva/Machida fight should get the next shot.
by Shadyone33 on Jan 14, 2009 1:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If this fight goes down in March, you could possibly see Machida/Silva fighting the winner at UFC 100.
by stevo on Jan 14, 2009 1:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Either that, or the winner of Machida/Thiago has to fight once more before a title shot, probably against someone like Shogun.
by Space on Jan 14, 2009 2:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The way that he lost the belt was a close decision. The one win was over a guy who dominated him twice. I’m not complaining about it.
Only other possible match up I would do is wait till Shogun beats Coleman and fight, winner gets Shad.
But I guess they want Shogun/Page 2 to be for the belt.
Again, no complaint.s
by Synyster [[2009 Year of Gegard Mousasi]] on Jan 14, 2009 1:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t see Shogun getting a title shot with a win over Coleman. He will need another win IMO. They might try and match him up with Liddell if the timing is right.
by stevo on Jan 14, 2009 2:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i agree, shogun will need at least one more win after coleman, guy can just leapfrog his way to the front of the line without proving his worth.
by Chris on Jan 15, 2009 8:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Lester- Chuck was TKoed and was going to be given a title shot rematch if he could get past Jardine, but he did not. At least Rampage lost a close decision, and rebounded with a devastating KO win. I think he should be given the shot, plus this fight is happening EARLY in the year and this will give Machida/Silva not that long of a wait to fight the winner.
by c-war on Jan 14, 2009 2:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
he lost a contraversial split decision and crushed his next opponenet. he is ready
by COR on Jan 14, 2009 2:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Randy Couture got a title shot with one win after he lost it when he lost to Liddell. He faced van arsdale and then liddell again for the rubbermatch for the title.
The ex-champion who loses a very close decision shouldn’t have to fight his way all the way back up to get a shot. He barely lost the title, he deserves a chance to get it back.
Who recently do you think deserves the title more? Who have they beat recently to deserve it?
by joseph on Jan 14, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rampage’s lost to Forrest was close. No real other champion has lost that close as of late anyways. Every current champion has finished their fights to get the title. So that’s why. Soem thought he should have gotten an instant rematch as opposed to having to fight Silva. Rashad only got the shot for Knocking out Chuck, cause before that he won a split decision and got a draw on Tito, and 96 needs a big fight and Thiago or Lyoto won’t be ready by then.
by J-money on Jan 14, 2009 1:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
sweet rampage is getting his belt back sooner than later :D
by ruan-fiy on Jan 14, 2009 2:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
this fight would b a stand up war. rampage by ko in the 1st i dont remember when rashad won a 1st round.
by beast3000 on Jan 14, 2009 2:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Vera has absolutely no business being on the main card after his last 3 or 4 performances.
by Flying Knee on Jan 14, 2009 2:05 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
as one of u said before " I hope quinton beats wandy so they can have ufc 96 black on black crime" nice u were right
by The Philicutioner on Jan 14, 2009 2:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed, maybe the ufc thinks since there putting him in there with a bad oppenent he can return to his old self once again in order to rebuild his name and popularity before they try to expand into the phillipines.
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 8:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I personally feel that they want Page to beat Rashad, then they feed Chuck a couple bums so he can win in old school fashion. Then of course they have a huge ppv with Chucky vs Page again.
Im sure that is the plan.
Or Rashad loses, then Chuck rematchs him. If Chuck wins that, he gets the shot.
Count on it
by enzo-enormous on Jan 14, 2009 2:11 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
One thing is certain, the UFC is going to bend backwards to give Chuck another title shot. No matter how many fights Chuck loses, he is always only 1 fight away from a title shot.
by stevo on Jan 14, 2009 2:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i wouldnt say one fight away because if that was true why wouldnt they have given him a crack at the title after he beat wanderlei? I would say if he wins back to back fights against a decent guy and a near top level guy than he will get a crack
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
rampage win this
then he will face lyoto(after he defeats thiago) dont know what will happen in that fight maybe i can tell after UFC 94 and by the time shogun already beat coleman and maybe chuck and another contender maybe luiz cane and then face the winner of rampage/lyoto and become the new LHW champ yeahhh perfect year for shogun!!
by JoW on Jan 14, 2009 2:15 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I’d like to see Lyoto vs. Rashad
Now that Rampage gets the first shot – that matchup will probably be ruined
by Anger Jack on Jan 14, 2009 3:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
lyoto vs. rashad…that sounds like a real interesting exciting fight, two counter punchers who like to dance around the octagon until their oppenent commits, but who knows maybe it would be a exciting fight
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If it wasnt for T silva getting hurt and pushing back his ultimate demise against machida, Machida would be the one facing R Evens at UFC 96.
I cant wait to see R evens knock quinton senseless
by dia mette on Jan 14, 2009 2:18 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
like one of u said before “I hope quinton beats wandy so we can have ufc 96 black on black crime” guess u were right!!
by The Philicutioner on Jan 14, 2009 2:19 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
yess, finally! this fight is going to be awesome. i still cant pick a winner. for all of you counting rashad out, think about it again. yes rampage has much more technical striking and power in both hands, but rashad is faster than him, has power, and is more well rounded (aka he actually knows how to throw a kick).
by COR on Jan 14, 2009 2:33 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
If rampage can go 25 min with henderson and win….then he can do the same with Rashad if needbe. Please dont tell me Rashad is even close to henderson in both popularity and skill
by What? on Jan 14, 2009 2:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I can definately see Rashad eking out a decision against Henderson (the same way he has done numerous times b4)
by Anger Jack on Jan 14, 2009 3:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well, hendo’s got tons of skill but he doesnt always use them. he fights stubborn. he has proven many times that he is willing to abandon any gameplan and his strengths to just swing away and throw haymakers. he even tried it against anderson silva. lately it hasnt worked out for him.
rashad will fight a much smarter fight and has a lot of the same tools that dan does. he is a wrestler with power in both hands, plus he can throw kicks, is naturally bigger, and a whole lot faster.
by COR on Jan 14, 2009 3:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well – he better run then while he can – bcz some good @s-whooping is coming
by Anger Jack on Jan 14, 2009 3:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Pleeeeease! Please, Rampage, kick Rashad’s -! I cannot stand him and I think he’s overrated and has gotten handed a few wins that he didn’t deserve! He is a good fighter, but, I’d rather watch Machida fight than him! Although quite effective, Machida still bores me to death!
by Dana's a Crossdresser on Jan 14, 2009 2:35 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Machida vs Evans? – for the ultimate borefest ;+)
by Anger Jack on Jan 14, 2009 3:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
overrated, what does this guy have to do?
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think Page should be getting a title shot yet. He didn’t do anything special while being the champ (one big win doesn’t cut it) to get him this title shot. I love Wandy, but one win over him shouldn’t give you a title shot. Imo. Page should fight Shogun if he beats Coleman. The divsions too packed to give a fighter a title shot after one win, the winner of Machida/Thiago should have the next title shot. Page does sell tickets/ppv buys, its easy to see why the UFC would want him fighting for the belt, but I think its too soon imo.
by mmanutZ on Jan 14, 2009 2:37 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I might end up going to this card now that it has a solid main event if it does materialize. Can someone explain why the winner of Thiago v Machida deserves a title shot. Neither have beat a top 5 lhw let alone a top 10.
by Lyquid on Jan 14, 2009 2:37 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
PLEASE let Rampage break rashads ugly face!!! I hope rampage wins the belt back. I hate Rashad evans
by What? on Jan 14, 2009 2:38 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
If Rampage can go 25 minutes vs henderson and win…he can beat evans…no doubt
by What? on Jan 14, 2009 2:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Jackson Via K.O., I like(Sugar) Rashad, But Jackson is a bad match-up for Him….(Howls!!!)
by Ben Richards on Jan 14, 2009 2:49 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Page can win this for sure. Time to see if Rashad has a chin. Page will test it for sure.
by enzo-enormous on Jan 14, 2009 2:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
No doubt interesting
Winner better enjoy
thiago or lyoto will defeat either
by phenomenal angel on Jan 14, 2009 2:54 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Lyoto can and will beat both it just wont be entertaining
by bmo on Jan 14, 2009 3:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
lyoto maybe. thiago not a chance. he hasnt beat anyone in the top 10 yet and he is really slow.
by COR on Jan 14, 2009 3:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
how in the blue hell do you see thiago silva being rampage or rashad, lyoto can beat any light heavy(i think) but page and rashad would slaughter thiago with ease. i fuckin hate the thiago silva hype hes not even a top 5 and people make him sound like the new lhw king pin
by Jared on Jan 14, 2009 4:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
like one of u said before “I hope quinton beats wandy so we can have ufc 96 black on black crime” nice u were right
by The Philicutioner on Jan 14, 2009 2:55 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Rampage will out strike out wrestle out work and just pummel Rashad. id love to see Rashad try and grab his shit while fighting page
Rampage by KO
by HIOH on Jan 14, 2009 3:02 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
out strike maybe, out wrestle no, out work is a push in my opinion, i think this is going to be a very close exciting fight, both guys has fast powerful hands and great chins
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rashad is faster, but it doesnt matter because he is TOO worried about getting hit, thus he spends mroe time avoiding damage then he does engaging. Also, I do not think Rashad has the chin like Rampage does. Wrestling can go to Rashad, but come on, Rampage has BJJ and he outwrestled Dan Henderson (remember him? the Olympic wrestler?) Rampage has better boxing and punching power and strength and better chin. Rampage by KO or TKO. If Rashad wins it will be by decision. He will not put Rampage away!
by Chadx23 on Jan 14, 2009 4:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
rashads chin is pretty impressive, i dont think he has ever been knocked down by a punch in his career and he has eaten some big shots like a liddell right hand in the first round of their fight. Also im not saying rashad is going to win im just saying this is going to be a very close and competitve fight
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Close and Competitive. Exactly. These are my 2 Fav’s (also Penn).
So its’ a Win-Win or Lose-Lose…depending on viewpoint for me.
by Ground-Game on Jan 14, 2009 5:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
acutally i would say it is a win-lose, i mean one of your faves will win and move on to bigger and better thing and the other will lose and have to work his way back up to the top which wont be a very long climb as they are two of the top fighters in the division if not the top two
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 6:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Out strike no way, out wrestle ofcourse not, you new to the mma game or something?
by bmo on Jan 14, 2009 3:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s too early, give the guys some time to rest up and make the fight in may or april.. I wanna see the best Rampage possible, cause he will need that to take Rashad out
by RoB on Jan 14, 2009 3:05 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
This will be Rashads toughest fight to date but still see him winning by KO!!!!
by Spyder on Jan 14, 2009 3:06 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I like the match up but this date doesn’t give a lot of time to the fighters to fully prepare for such an important bout ..I was expecting something of this caliber be planned for the 100th show.
by commoner on Jan 14, 2009 3:29 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
so what would u recommend for the main event at ufc 96?
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 3:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Phenom Angel if you think that Lyoto or Thiago is going to beat either Quinton or Rashad, then you definately get better weed than I do, Becauze you’s is high my man………
by Ben Richards on Jan 14, 2009 3:38 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
No Offense Phenom Angel, I usually Agree with your predictions,
I just don’t feel that Lyoto’s Back Pedalling, “ELUSIVE”, Out Pointing, Pussy Tactics(The man is a martial Arts Phenom, No Doubt,Just doen’t engage enough for me to appreciate) Or THiago With his Angry Monkey Faces, Can Stack up to that natural KO Snap in the punch that Both Rashad & Quinton have displayed as of Late(Griffin Fight Excluded)
by Ben Richards on Jan 14, 2009 3:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully this match does happen, im looking forward to evans killing rampage
by bmo on Jan 14, 2009 3:52 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
personally i dont want see either of them killing each other ha
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 6:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I personally don’t careswho gets the next shot because I’m putting all my money on Machida to be the champ by end of 2009. I’m also gonna say that Thiago Alves will be the welterweight champ by end of 2009.
by rydinlow on Jan 14, 2009 3:57 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
As for the comments made by Ben Richards. Who cares how hard Quinton or Rashad punch or how much KO power they have, they first have to hit the guy which alot of other fighters how shown to be difficult. That backpeddling pussy tactics you talk about, it’s called great defense and a great defense will beat any great offense 90% of the time.
by rydinlow on Jan 14, 2009 4:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
awesome! glad they wont make us wait until ufc 100 for this fight…
by radimus on Jan 14, 2009 4:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
i dont agree on this one, machida got robbed again. although i would like that matchup rampage vs evans, but technically its unfair for other fighters
by mad_drummer on Jan 14, 2009 4:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Rampage should fight at least one more time before getting a title-shot. Rampage lost to Griffin, beats Wanderlei and gets a title shot? Wanderlei has 1 win in his last 5 fights. At least it isn’t as bad as Lesnar’s road to the title. He gets schooled by Mir in a minute and a half, beats Herring (not even a top 25 heavyweight) and gets a title shot with a 2-1 record in MMA.
by Belisarius on Jan 14, 2009 5:12 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Rampage needs a title shot..i want to see him get a title shot and i hope he wins
by What? on Jan 14, 2009 5:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Well, what makes more sense money-wise? Rashad-Rampage or Rashad-Machida? It’s all buisness people and that’s how it will always be.
by BrutalKnockout. on Jan 14, 2009 5:19 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Machida bores everyone Dana knows the fans know it it that’s why hes giving Jackson a title shot no one wants machida 2 have the belt even tho he deserves a shot hes not marketable fighter like Jackson or Evans
by some guy on Jan 14, 2009 5:38 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
also machida is fighting about only one month before this fight takes place if it takes place so people calm down if lyoto wins his next fight he will be getting a title shot
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 6:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
this just fucking rubs it in to the uk fans at ufc95!!
What a JOKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by mo on Jan 14, 2009 5:55 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
This has the makings of the best fight in UFC history.
by UFCJOHN on Jan 14, 2009 6:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
This fight needs to be on this card!! Carwin vs Gonzaga is the biggest fight on it as of now. Just not enough star power to sale! Just take a look at the rest of the card and tell me it doesn’t a title fight! And I have tickets to this and would love to see this fight!!
by rocky on Jan 14, 2009 6:18 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
i also have tickets and if the fights doesnt materialize and we are left with a gonzage vs. carwin main event i will be extemely mad as the rest of the card is solid but it looks more like a ufn or free spike tv card
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 6:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah no doubt about the other fights, some of them should be exciting, but not for a main card on a PPV
And what the rumor of Chuck on this card?
by rocky on Jan 14, 2009 7:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i read a dana white interview and according to dana chuck does not want to fight until april
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 7:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well let’s see after machida fight I’m pulling for machida in any scenerio
But whoever doubts thiago, comeon he deserves credit he has finished all oponents
The man hits like a machine, rampage has been koed and possibly can again, thiagos a young hungry fighter
If he were to fight rampage he will comeout swinging he won’t be worried losing to big name unlike vice versa
Rashad might give thiago problems with wrestling but I believe he can pull it off like its said mma anything can happen.
And for sure machida will run and land little hits frustraiting either fighter, for sure reason he has no shot yet cus not exciting.
And to top it off both lyoto and machida have the jits over both page and rashad
by phenomenal angel on Jan 14, 2009 6:22 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
lmao nicely said john altho i like rashad but Rampage is my hero and id luv to see Rashad do the ‘kiss my dick’ taunt to Page – fuk me dat wud b classic Rashads head wud be in Row Z!
by Randy for Couture on Jan 14, 2009 6:22 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Lyoto and thiago*** better jits
by phenomenal angel on Jan 14, 2009 6:28 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
call me nuts but Rashad has better stand up then Rampage. Rampage= flat footed, always looking for 1 knockout punch, doesnt mix it up enough, slow left jab while the right hand is loaded. Rashad= good footwork, fast, KO power as well, stick and move. If Rampage fights the same way he did against Forrest he will lose the fight to a UD. Rashad is real good at running away from opponents while scoring points.Rampage has to look for the take down to win. He is not going to catch Rashad like he did Wandy. Forrest couldn’t even catch Rashad.
by danny_c on Jan 14, 2009 7:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
this is a good analysis, i’ve been rewatching and rashad has great footwork nowdays and will probably beat rampage, not really a rashad fan tho,
by markg on Jan 15, 2009 4:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Im sick of ppl bitchin bout lesnar gettin an early title shot – he WAS OBVIOUSLY FUCKING GOOD ENOUGH FOR A TITLE SHOT and only needed one win because of his abilities and pyhsique and ppl sayin sure he got “schooled” by Frank Mir – Mir got lucky as hell and Mir is Interim Champ so obviosli Lesnar has fought the top ppl. If your good enough to fight for the title without fighting one UFC fight then you should get it…no point wastin time on ur career practising for a title shot if ur already at the required level to challenge for the title!
Nicely said John i like rashad but Rampage is my hero. id luv to see Rashad try his ‘kiss my dick’ taunt at Page cus rashads head wud end up in row Z! ha
by Randy for Couture on Jan 14, 2009 8:20 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Dana is waiting to see if Machida’s fan base picks up as Dana mentioned that he thinks Machida is the next Anderson Silva in not getting beat (definitely not exciting although Machida wins). However, Dana did say he wasn’t sure how marketable Machida is with his evulsive style.
I think it will be a good fight between Rashad and Rampage. I’ve always been a Rampage fan and wear a chain out to support him, but Greg Jackson always has a game plan for his fighters.
by CaptainAmerica1967 on Jan 14, 2009 9:56 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Hey mania:
In your opinion what are the chances of this fight happening?
by matt on Jan 14, 2009 11:30 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
the only benfit i see from this is two of my least favorite 205’ers beating the crap out of eachother
by connor on Jan 14, 2009 11:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
my pick is evans by decision
not a huge jackson fan but he does have nice fights most of time winning or getting beat
by phenomenal angel on Jan 14, 2009 11:57 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
u want a sure bet folks? bet on rashad you will not regret it!
by mad_drummer on Jan 15, 2009 7:27 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
man, shit. Rampage never lost that title first of all. And who’s this Tyson character?? All rampage has is a good punch. Did you see the Dan Henderson fight?? Rampage controlled the ground game hard as a bitch in that fight, controlled the greco roman champion on the ground. All he has is a punch? man, shut the fuck up, even Wanderlei said that shit wasn’t luck, and on the real, that punch woulda put brock lesnar on his ass. Rampage IS the champion. I can’t wait til he bust Rashads’ ass and the Thiago or Lyoto will get a title shot, and both would get there ass handed to them. Anderson Silva could beat Rampage though, thaz the only cat that can beat him right now
by The nigga on Jan 17, 2009 1:03 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
OK first of all THis is the way i see it and i havn’t read all 10k posts but i havn’t seen it mentioned.
Rampage did loose to forrest period, close but wining is wining and i think forest was nice and stoped kicking his leg cause he is too nice of a guy and respects rampage’s personality. Rampage’s game is suspect but he seems to get oponents to fight his game over and over so it works for now.
Rashad – WAY to much ego, but hes smart enough to know the devastating element of SPEED, and he has possibly the fastest hands in the LHW devision. THIS is gonna be NEW for Rampage.
As far as machida! i don’t like watching him, however i managed to find a interesting clip on you tube where he lets this guy (idk who) pretty big guy hit him 3 times in the face and doesn’t even throw back and takes some wicked shots, he actually wasn’t running, and he didn’t run against silva, so he has more potential to entique a crowed, but then again why get hit if u don;t have to.
they should just let Lyoto and ramapage fight for title shot thats what i say
by Achilles on Mar 8, 2009 1:55 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
How does an undefeated fighter with wins against, Stephan Bonnar, BJ Penn, Rich Franklin, Sokoudjou, Tito and Silva not get a title fight!!!????!!!! It should be Machida getting the title fight, no question about it!
by Edge Crusher on Mar 10, 2009 1:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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