The mixed martial arts career of Quinton “Rampage” Jackson is unclear following a New Jersey judge granting Bellator an injunction against the fighter from competing at UFC 186 at the end of the month.
The injunction was granted by Judge Karen L. Suter of the Superior Court of New Jersey on Tuesday morning.
“We are pleased by the judge’s ruling and look forward to having Rampage fighting for Bellator again soon,” Bellator said in a statement.
Jackson self-terminated his Bellator contract last year when his camp felt that Bellator was in breach of contract. Shortly after he self-terminated the contract, Jackson signed with the UFC and was scheduled to meet about Fabio Maldonado at UFC 186 on April 25.
On late Tuesday afternoon, the UFC released a statement on the decision made by Judge Suter today and the complete statement is below.
“UFC has been advised of the New Jersey state court’s ruling in the matter between Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson and Bellator MMA,” the 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.”