MMA legend Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson’s moniker comes from a series of childhood memories.
Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson’s nickname is synonymous with some of the most vicious finishes in MMA history, dating back to his time competing in Japan. The former UFC light heavyweight champion, during his physical prime, was one of the most intimidating athletes in combat sports.
During his career, Jackson defeated a slew of MMA legends, including Ricardo Arona and Chuck Liddell while competing in Pride. He made his way to the UFC in 2007 following Zuffa’s Pride purchase, eventually hoisting the UFC light heavyweight championship.
Jackson’s nickname, ‘Rampage’, is one of the most beloved monikers in UFC history. While it alludes to chaos and violence, Jackson transformed from Quinton to ‘Rampage’ while playing video games with his cousin.
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During an appearance on the Fight Back Podcast, Jackson explained how ‘Rampage’ came to be.
“My cousin named that when I was 8 years old, from the damn [Rampage] video game,” Jackson shared. “It was one of my favorite games growing up.
“But if I could’ve picked my fight name, it would’ve been ‘Action’.”
Jackson showcased incredible grit, toughness, and power during his fighting career. After making his UFC debut at UFC 67, Jackson knocked out Marvin Eastman to earn a rematch against Chuck Liddell in the Octagon, knocking him out in the first round to win the light heavyweight belt.
Jackson went on to lose the belt one fight later but would earn victories over the likes of Lyoto Machida, Keith Jardine, and Wanderlei Silva. He also competed with top names like Jon Jones and Rashad Evans.
After falling to fellow legend Fedor Emelianenko at Bellator 237, Jackson hasn’t fought since the first-round TKO loss. But Jackson might be plotting a return to fighting in the boxing ring against a familiar foe.
Jackson was initially in talks to face boxing legend Shannon Briggs before fight talks fell apart. If his planned boxing debut comes to fruition, it’ll be his first fight in six years.
The word ‘Rampage’ will be directly linked with Jackson for years to come. He amassed a 38-14 professional record with an astounding 20 knockout victories.
While Jackson has toned down his admitted temper since making the full-time move into podcasting, trolls might not want to irk him, or they’ll face the full wrath of his ‘Rampage’ alter-ego.