According to a report from MMA Junkie, UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones has verbally agreed to face former UFC light heavyweight champion and perennial top contender Quinton Jackson. This would be Jones' first defense of the title since claiming it from Mauricio Rua at UFC 128. "I'll be fighting Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson next," Jones told the site. "I'm not allowed to discuss the date because I didn't sign a contract, but yeah, it will be very soon."
Jon Jones Vs. Rampage Jackson Verbally Agreed To, Likely For UFC 135 In September
Jones indicated it's likely the fight will be held in September of this year. Currently, the UFC plans to host UFC 135 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado, making this likely destination for this fight.
Jones was originally scheduled to face former UFC light heavyweight champion Rashad Evans at UFC 133 in Philadelphia on August 6th. Due to a lingering hand injury, however, he withdrew from the fight. Initially expecting surgery, Jones was able to avoid any invasive procedures with a second doctor's opinion. He is now completing the final stages of physical therapy.
After a summer filled with disappointing due to marquee fighters and marquee fights falling through, the UFC is setting itself for a strong fall with Jones vs. Jackson at UFC 135 and Georges St. Pierre vs. Nick Diaz at UFC 137.
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