Mixed Martial Arts Fighting

[BlackThought]

Ryan Bader vs. Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson set for UFC 144 in Japan

Quinton "Rampage" Jackson (32-9 MMA, 7-3 UFC) will get his wish.

UFC co-owner Lorenzo Fertitta today revealed to ESPN.com that the promotion has granted the former champion his request for a fight in Japan, and Ryan Bader (13-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) will now oppose him at UFC 144.

UFC 144 is set for Feb. 26 at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. Broadcast plans for the event have yet to be announced.

Earlier this week, Jackson claimed he was unlikely to fight on the card and openly expressed his frustration at the UFC's decision.

"It don't look like I'm fighting in Japan, which I'm not happy about at all," Jackson wrote on his official Twitter account. "I think its a big mistake by the UFC."

Later that day, Jackson appeared a little more optimistic.

"Guys, I have the best managers in the business," Jackson stated. "This thing will work its way out."

Jackson, of course, has a long history of fighting in Japan. The former PRIDE superstar fought 18 times in Japan between 2001 and 2006. He'll return to Japan looking to rebound from a UFC 135 loss to current UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones.

Meanwhile, Bader looks to build on the strength of a UFC 139 win over Jason Brilz. The much-needed result snapped a two-fight losing streak for the winner of "The Ultimate Fighter 8."

For more on UFC 144, stay tuned to the UFC Events section of the site.

http://mmajunkie.com/news/26254/ryan-bader-vs-quinton-rampage-jackson-set-for-ufc-144-in-japan.mma