Former UFC champion Rashad Evans is planning a boxing match against Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, reigniting their rivalry nearly 15 years after their original fight, with Evans eager to seize this opportunity as he contemplates his future in combat sports.
Former UFC champion Rashad Evans had always left the door slightly ajar for a comeback. Now, he’s flinging it wide open, planning a boxing match against his old rival, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson.
For months, whispers of this fight have been swirling. But Evans has confirmed he’s already diving into training camp, with a tentative date and location in mind.
"You’ll be interested to hear that I’ve jumped into training camp," Evans shared with MMA Fighting. "We’re eyeing the end of February, likely in Florida. It’s going to be a boxing match."
The buzz about this bout began several months back, with ONE Championship showing interest in promoting it. Alas, that opportunity fizzled out.
Yet, Evans and Jackson never lost hope. Their rivalry dates back to their coaching stints on The Ultimate Fighter and culminated in their 2010 Octagon clash, where Evans emerged victorious via unanimous decision.
Fast forward nearly 15 years, and Evans is eager to reignite the flame with Jackson—this time, donning boxing gloves.
"I pondered retirement," Evans mused. "I’m 45 now and could just enjoy life. But I’d always wonder if I could’ve had that one boxing match for fun."
Boxing holds a special place in Evans’ heart. Plus, facing off against a fit Rampage—who’s been prepping for Shannon "The Cannon" Briggs—adds to the allure.
Evans last fought in 2022 after a four-year hiatus, defeating Gabriel Checco at an Eagle FC event in Florida. Retirement wasn’t on his lips then, and when the chance to box Jackson came up, he seized it.
This matchup allows Evans to compete without the grueling demands of MMA preparation. "Boxing training feels so much better," he said. "My body recovers faster; no more waking up with random injuries."
The anticipation for this rematch is palpable given their intense feud before their first fight. Despite moving past old grudges, Evans anticipates the rivalry will heat up as they near fight night.
"We’ve got respect for each other but still clown around," Evans noted about Jackson. "It’s friendly competition that’ll surely ramp up as the fight approaches."
Interestingly, working together on the movie Boss Level shifted their dynamic from animosity to camaraderie. Yet the competitive spirit remains alive and well.
For Evans, this fight also ticks a career checkbox as he acknowledges time’s relentless march. He’s keen to avoid future regrets by seizing this moment.
"I’m 45, and it’s surreal how fast time’s flown by," he reflected. "But I’m grateful for every experience along my journey."
Post-fight plans remain undecided until after he faces Jackson in the ring—a strategy similar to his approach following his 2022 MMA return.
Evans intends to assess how his body and mind feel afterward before deciding on further fights. "I’m taking it one step at a time," he explained.
Fighting demands both physical readiness and mental toughness—a challenge not easily embraced after growing accustomed to civilian life.
Evans knows he’ll need grit and energy if he decides to continue fighting post-Jackson bout. But if that fire dims? He’s not looking to get blasted by anyone like Jake Paul anytime soon!