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Quinton “Rampage” Jackson vs. Keith “The Dean of Mean” Jardine

Bookmark and Share by D.S. Williamson

Fight-day:  3/7/2009

In two days some of the best fighters in the world will descend upon Columbus, Ohio for UFC 96!

In the main event, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson takes on Keith “The Dean of Mean” Jardine and BetUS Sportsbook is offering wagering on the fight.  Will Jackson continue his return to the top of the UFC heap by taking down long shot Jardine?

Let’s analyze the fight.

Keith Jardine +250

Strengths:  Jardine has fought some of the toughest guys in UFC.  Just two fights ago, he took on Wanderlei Silva.  Then three fights ago, he took on Chuck Liddell.  Jardine is a very experienced fighter that can kick with the best in the Octagon and is well-rounded enough to hold his own on the ground.

Weaknesses:  The two fights mentioned above, versus Silva and Liddell, both occurred many months ago.  Jardine fought Silva in May of 2008 and Liddell in September of 2007.  He might be on the other side of his career which means Rampage could really hurt him on Saturday.

Quinton Jackson -350

Strengths:  In his last fight, Quinton Jackson proved to UFC fans why he’s such a formidable fighter.  He nearly took Wanderlei Silva’s head off in the first round, knocking him out with a devastating left hook.  Jackson has put his personal issues behind him and can now just concentrate on fighting.  Jackson can wrestle, strike, ground and pound and just do whatever it takes to win.

Weaknesses:  There aren’t many.  Jackson’s biggest hurdle might be himself.  He can let things get in the way of fighting his best when he’s in the ring and even though he says the personal stuff is behind him, do gamblers really believe that?  Jackson has mental lapses at times in the Octagon.  When that happens, he can get knocked out.

Analysis:  As much as I’d like to make a case for Keith Jardine, I just can’t do it.  Quinton Jackson is a much better fighter and should take Jardine out with ease in the first round.  Jardine has experience and is a tough guy, but Rampage is a beast.  He can beat you in so many ways.  Jardine will have to be cautious which means he won’t be scoring with punches.  If Jackson’s head is alright, and I believe it should be, then this fight shouldn’t last very long.  Rampage all the way.

Pick:  Quinton “Rampage” Jackson at -350