In late September, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson announced on his blog that he is going to retire from fighting.  This came after falling under much scrutiny from Dana White and after landing an acting job in a major movie role.  What does this mean for the fight against Rashad Evans?

To keep with the tradition of UFC’s Ultimate Fighter reality show, the coaches of the opposing teams face off in the Octagon at the end of the season.  The drama and anger that builds throughout the episodes usually drives the fight’s ratings through the roof.  This is a good thing for pay-per-view income.  However, on December 12th this fight probably will not happen.

There has not been much promotion for the fight or any real acknowledgment from the UFC of his retirement.  It is up to the fans to form their own assumption at this point.  It is a sad thing for me to admit because he is one of my favorite fighters, but I think his statement is official.

He landed the role of Sgt. B.A. Baracus (Mr. T) in the 2010 version of the A-Team.  Originally, he took the role because of the sentimental value of it.  He said he and his father used to bond while watching the show and doing this would be special for both of them.  Rampage is now hoping this movie will kick off his acting career.  Recent jaw surgery and more frequent fighting injuries have driven him to want to retire as a fighter and pursue acting.

This is a smart decision.  Realistically, a fighter of this caliber can not continue to take these beating for years to come.  I give him credit for thinking of his future even though a fight against Rashad Evans could draw in lots of money.  Normally, I would think he would take this last fight and draw in the money.  That was until Dana White mocked him publicly.  He belittled Rampage’s future as an actor.  I am not sure about you, but if my boss put me on blast and I had the chance to stick it to him…I would.

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