In a recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show, former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson had a hearty laugh in response to Rogan’s question about whether his confidence comes from reading books.
During the interview, Rogan asked Jackson, “Did you learn how to have a strong mind or is it just something that you did, you read books? Did you talk to someone, like how did you develop?”
Jackson’s response was filled with amusement, as he chuckled and said, “Yeah, I was in jail. I had a bunch of free time on my hands.”
Jackson went on to reveal he read a total of two books in his life – The Bible and Stephen King’s Christine.
“Christine” is a horror novel by Stephen King, first published in 1983. The story revolves around a 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine, which is possessed by a malevolent force.
The novel follows a young high school student named Arnie Cunningham. Arnie is an awkward teenager who buys a dilapidated car, Christine, despite the objections of his best friend, Dennis Guilder, and his parents. As Arnie begins to restore Christine, his personality changes; he becomes more confident but also more aggressive and detached from his friends and family.
As the restoration progresses, strange events occur. Christine seems to have a mind of her own, with the ability to repair herself and a thirst for vengeance. Those who cross Arnie or attempt to interfere with the car’s restoration meet with mysterious and often deadly accidents.
Christine’s influence over Arnie grows stronger, and he becomes increasingly obsessed with the car. The novel explores themes of possession, obsession, and the corrupting influence of power. It combines elements of supernatural horror with a coming-of-age story, set against the backdrop of high school life and teenage struggles.
The light-hearted exchange came as Jackson discussed his plans for a potential boxing match against former opponent Rashad Evans under the ONE Championship banner. Jackson revealed that he and Evans have been in talks about the bout, which could take place in November.
“Him and I are talking about doing a boxing match against each other in November. We’re trying to get that going,” Jackson said, adding that the bout may be held in Atlanta under the ONE FC banner.
Jackson and Evans have a storied history, having served as opposing coaches on season 10 of TUF and later facing off in the main event of UFC 114 in 2010, where Evans emerged victorious.
Now, the former champions seem eager to settle the score in the boxing ring, as Jackson aims to avenge his previous loss to Evans.
“I need to get that win back,” Jackson said, expressing his determination to come out on top in the potential matchup.
With his career winding down, Jackson is also focusing on his transition into the world of acting and production. Earlier this year, he launched Rampage ‘n J Productions, a new production company, in partnership with multi-hyphenate Joel Silverman.
“My boy J’s a genius and he’s been fam for years, so now that my fighting career is near its end, I’m excited to bounce into the acting and producing ring,” Jackson said in a statement.
As Rampage Jackson prepares for his potential boxing showdown with Rashad Evans and his new ventures in the entertainment industry, his infectious personality and competitive spirit continue to shine through, leaving fans and observers alike eagerly awaiting his next move.
