Quinton “Rampage” Jackson returns to Japan for the first time since 2006 as he takes on Ryan “Darth” Bader, Saturday Feb 25th, at UFC 144. Rampage became a star with the Pride Fighting Championships and will undoubtedly be excited to perform in front of the Japanese fans once again. UFC oddsmakers have Quinton Jackson listed as a huge -270 moneyline favorite to beat Ryan Bader (+210). Be sure to get your UFC 144: Jackson vs Bader Picks before the first punch is thrown.
Rampage Jackson (32-9, 7-3 UFC)
Jackson’s loss to Jon Jones may have been more lopsided than many initially expected, but the fact remains that “Rampage” survived longer than anyone else in the UFC has against the light heavyweight champion. While another shot at the 205-pound strap appears to be out of reach as long as Jones is king, Jackson should have plenty of motivation to put on a show against Bader.
Jackson bases his entire game plan around throwing bombs. His solid wrestling is used primarily to defend takedowns and keep the fight upright so he can put his opponent to sleep. Gone are the days when Jackson would use his considerable upper body strength to execute powerful slams, and do not expect the Memphis, Tenn., native to shoot at any point in the fight, either.
This fight will see Rampage headhunting throughout and a counter right hand finding its mark to get the stoppage in the second or third round.
Ryan Bader (13-2, 6-2 UFC)
Bader beat Jason Brilz with a straight right that landed behind the ear of Brilz. Bader took advantage of Brilz, whose wild punches were easily evaded by “The Ultimate Fighter 8” winner. Before this win Tito Ortiz buckled Bader with a right hook and pounced to secure a guillotine choke in what was MMA’s biggest upset in 2011. The nature of the loss raised some concerns, because Ortiz is not known to possess numbing power in his hands. Bader still has solid knockout power, but the former Arizona State University wrestling star would like to implement some ground-and-pound, as well. Jones had some success in getting Jackson to the floor, but Bader lacks the Greco-Roman skills and length of “Bones” to follow a similar blueprint.
If Bader comes out with an exceptional game plan, mixing in leg kicks and attempting timely takedowns, he has a shot at winning on points.
UFC 144: Jackson vs Bader
When: Saturday, Feb 25th@10:00 PM EST
Pick: Jackson -270
Point-Spreads recommends you make your UFC 144: Jackson vs Bader Picks before the first punch is thrown.
The Bottom Line: Bader has a weak chin that Rampage will exploit. Want to dominate the books this season with some of the best UFC Odds & Picks from experts in the business? Then sign up right now and get UFC Picks Free!
