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Fighter’s Only Magazine, a British publication, revealed on its website that UFC Light Heavyweight fighter Quinton “Rampage” Jackson has signed a three-year managerial and training contract with the Wolfslair Academy of Liverpool, England.
Anthony McGann, one of the gym’s owners, confirmed that Jackson’s former head trainer, Juanito Ibarra, has resigned.
”[He] has resigned as Quinton’s manager and will now be concentrating on his other up-and-coming prospects. The split was amicable and they have parted on good terms,” McGann said.
McGann further added that the change in environment Jackson would experience training in Liverpool can be a benefit.
”He feels that training in England can help him focus, which can be difficult in California because of his star status. He’s relatively unknown in England.”
The agreement signed by Wolfslair and Jackson will have the gym and its management team represent the fighter for endorsements and prepare him for his fights. Fighters Only also confirmed that the plan for Jackson’s training will see the former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion have his day-to-day sessions held in Big Bear. Efforts will be made on both sides to have his camp finalize fight preparations should a bout be held in the U.S. Likewise, he will fly to Liverpool for his training in the lead-up to a fight should it be held in the U.K.
The article examines the previous extent of Jackson’s relationship with Wolfslair. UFC middleweight Michael “The Count” Bisping spent time at Jackson’s previous training camp led by Ibarra in Big Bear, California.
Through that relationship, Jackson flew early to Liverpool in preparation for his title unification match with former PRIDE FC Middleweight and Welterweight Champion Dan Henderson at UFC 75 in September 2007.
Though Wolfslair does have Bisping and UFC middleweight newcomer Paul Kelly, the gym lacks other big names. |