Judge grants Bellator MMA an injunction stopping ‘Rampage’ Jackson from fighting at UFC 186

After much speculation surrounding the future of Quinton “Rampage” Jackson over the last few months, today, in a New Jersey courtroom, some clarity was brought to the situation (for the time being anyway). Jackson, who left his Bellator contract late last year to re-sign with the UFC after he claimed Bellator did not fulfil said contract, had his Octagon comeback hopes dashed.

Jackson was due to fight against Fabio Maldonado on April 25th at UFC 186 in Montreal but today had an injunction placed by the aforementioned New Jersey court, after it was sought by Bellator, which stops him from competing in that fight.

“We are pleased by the judge’s ruling and look forward to having Rampage fighting for Bellator again soon.” An official statement from Bellator MMA said shortly after news broke while the UFC didn’t see things as cut and dry.

“UFC has been advised of the New Jersey state court’s ruling in the matter between Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Bellator MMA.” an official UFC statement said.

“The UFC organization was surprised about the ruling because Mr. Jackson represented to UFC on multiple occasions that he was free to negotiate and contract with UFC. The UFC organization is also surprised that Bellator sat on its alleged rights for months before taking action.”

“UFC understands that Mr. Jackson is considering an emergency appeal, and UFC is also considering action to protect its rights and minimize damages regarding this matter. UFC 186 in Montreal, Canada will proceed as planned and UFC is currently evaluating its fight card options.”

At this stage it looks like Rampage will almost definitely not be fighting at UFC 186 and might have to wait much longer for his next bout while UFC and Bellator duke it out in the courtroom.

Whether that fight takes place in the round or octagonal cage is another big unknown.