'Rampage' hints at desired UFC return; Dana White discusses 'unique relationship'

Quinton Jackson

Is Quinton Jackson angling for a UFC return, and is company president Dana White actually open to it?

Both “Rampage” and White this week suggested such a scenario isn’t as farfetched as it might seem.

After Jackson (35-11 MMA, 3-0 BMMA) suffered three straight losses, the UFC released him in early 2013. Prior to the release, Jackson was often less than complimentary of the promotion. He then signed with rival Bellator MMA, where he’s 3-0 with a Season 10 tournament title, as part of a joint MMA and wrestling deal, which included some brief work with TNA.

However, Jackson, now appears unhappy with his new home and might be pining for the days of old (via Twitter):

Although labeling the UFC “a devil” isn’t exactly the warmest sentiment, White suggested Jackson hasn’t completely burned his bridge to the UFC, where he reigned as light-heavyweight champion from 2007-2008.

“I like him,” White told TSN’s “Off the Record” on Monday. “‘Rampage’ and I have a very unique relationship. All the stuff that goes on publicly, behind the scenes, we square it away. He’s a good dude.”

During his time with the Bellator, Jackson has seen a change in management. He was a prized acquisition of former chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney, whom ex-Strikeforce promoter Scott Coker recently replaced. After the change, Jackson considered retirement.

He hasn’t fought since a controversial May win over Muhammed Lawal, which prompted a heated post-fight press conference.

For more on Bellator’s upcoming schedule, check out the MMA Rumors section of the site.