MMA fighter Rampage Jackson maintains a deep-seated rift with UFC CEO Dana White, primarily due to derogatory comments White made following Jackson’s February 2012 loss to Ryan Bader, which Jackson feels not only damaged their relationship but also his relationship with MMA in general.
Expectations of a reconciliation between Rampage Jackson and Dana White seem unlikely. Jackson last stepped into the UFC ring eight years ago, but he vividly remembers the friction he alleges has generated a lasting divide between himself and White. Jackson asserts that his quarrel with White originated from an incident in February 2012, following his defeat at the hands of Ryan Bader at UFC 144. He felt that the comments made about him by the UFC CEO were derogatory, leading to a soured relationship with both White and MMA at large.
Jackson provided more context on his podcast, “JAXXON podcast”. He spoke about an injury he sustained before the fight against Bader in Japan. After consulting White about his injury, Jackson opted to continue with the fight against his better judgement. Despite losing the battle, Jackson was taken aback by White’s comments during the press conference that Jackson no longer had his heart in the fight. This was a turning point in their relationship, according to Jackson, who felt disrespected and lost his love for the sport.
Jackson, with his intense knockouts, vicious slams, and larger-than-life personality, was once a major star in the UFC. He topped the light heavyweight division, ended the dominating streak of rival Chuck Liddell, and has entered the cage with several other notable fighters. However, Jackson’s 20-year career was not without its troubles. He attributes his one missed weight before the Bader fight to his injury, criticizing White for disregarding his commitment to the sport.
For Jackson, White’s insensitivity towards his injury reflected a lack of respect and appreciation for his determination to fight despite his injuries. This sentiment, coupled with White’s comments after his loss to Bader, cemented the strained bond between the two, making a possible reunion seem all the more unlikely.