UFC 114: Quinton “Rampage” Jackson vs. Rashad Evans rivalry hits boiling point

By Mike Johnston

View all » In the main event at UFC 114, fans across Canada and the rest of the world will see a fight, in the rawest sense. Two men, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Rashad Evans, dislike one another, have insulted one another, and will settle their differences in a feat of physical violence until a winner emerges.

UFC President Dana White said this is the most heated rivalry in the organization’s history. “These guys don't like each other. It doesn't get any more real than this," White said during the UFC 114 pre-fight conference call. "When you get two of the best in the world fighting each other, it's fun anyway. But when they don't like each other this much, it makes it a lot more fun."

During the conference call, reporters could barely get a word in edgeways because Rampage and Rashad continued their verbal warfare, which stems from their stints as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 10. The exchange over the phone gingerly toed the line between typical pre-fight hype and a deep-seated disdain for one another. This was not for show. This was not an act. These two men look forward to knocking the other unconscious.

Both are former UFC Light Heavyweight Champions and the winner is guaranteed the first shot at Mauricio “Shogun” Rua’s belt. However, a title shot takes a backseat to pride and ego at UFC 114.

Jackson said he has never disliked one of his opponents as much as he dislikes Evans. "I'm a grown-ass man. This is a sport to me, this is how I get paid," said Jackson. "But this is the first time I'm actually going to enjoy beating the hell out of somebody."

The feeling is mutual on Evans’ end. "You know the best thing about this is we'll see in two weeks. That's the best thing about all this s*** talking right now,” said Rashad. “We get to see in two weeks.”

All the disrespect and barbs being thrown around will lead to one of the most anticipated fights in UFC history. Fans in Canada can tune into Rogers Sportsnet for coverage of UFC Primetime: Rampage vs. Rashad. UFC 114 is available to order in Canada on pay-per-view Saturday, May 29.

For more information visit ufc.com.