For the first time in 2 years, Quinton Jackson stepped into the Octagon on Saturday night as he faced Brazilian brawler Fabio Maldonado in the co-main event of UFC 186. During his time away from the UFC Rampage rediscovered his winning ways, taking 3 straight in Bellator including two victories by knockout. Here he was hoping to build upon his momentum and get his first win in the UFC since 2011.
Fabio Maldonado came into this one with the clear game plan of tiring Rampage out. But unluckily for him Rampage’s conditioning was on point and the former UFC champ was able to pick Maldonado apart at will, with a great variety of leg kicks, body shots and offensive clinch work. Rampage outclassed Maldonado throughout and while he thoroughly deserved the victory, he might be a little disappointed that he couldn’t finish the Brazilian.
Quinton Jackson def. Fabio Maldonado via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
What was the high point of the fight?
Rampage’s power punches to the body were probably the most impressive aspect of his performance alongside his leg kicks, which he so rarely threw in the past.
Where do these two go from here?
Rampage’s next battle will most likely take place in the courtroom as Bellator are unlikely to give up their fight against their former star who they contend broke his contract by signing with the UFC. When Rampage is free to fight again, a fight with the winner of the Shogun vs. Lil’ Nog would make sense.
There is no denying that Maldonado is fun to watch so I am hoping the UFC will keep him around. I wouldn’t mind seeing him in their with Patrick Cummins, who recently suffered a disappointing loss of his own against Ovince St. Preux.
Watch now, later, or never?
Never. This fight certainly wasn’t the worst fight ever but it is by no means worth going out of your way to watch.
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