Ex-UFC king graces King of Cage card

MANILA, Philippines - Former Ultimate Fighting Championship king Quinton “Rampage” Jackson will be the main guest when the King of the Cage-Philippines (KOTC-Phl) fires off on Friday night at the Mall of Asia arena in Pasay.

Not only will Jackson get to interact with the fans, he will be the main spectator to local bouts and two feature international bouts in the first ever Philippine edition of the United States-based MMA organization.

Jackson started his sterling career at the KOTC just like other MMA superstars Rashad Evans, Forest Griffin, Uriah Faber and Diego “The Nightmare” Sanchez to name a few.

KOTC-Phl chairman Ray Young said promising local MMA fighters will now have another venue to show their wares in the global arena.

“ We’re very excited about the opportunity in promoting, developing and providing exposure to these prospects in the Philippines through King of the Cage global platform,” said Young who was guest yesterday at the Philippine Sportswriters Association forum at the Shakey’s in Malate.

“Soon, we’ll have a KOTC world champion coming out of the Philippines who will be recognized globally and will have the ability to compete throughout the world.”

Also appearing at the forum was KOTC founder Terry Brebilcock who did not hide his admirtion for Filipino fighters.” Filipinos are best stand up fighters in the world, just give them more skills in wresting and you’ll have a complete package.”

The 20 local fighters in the event, sponsored by Solaire Resort and Casino, SM Ticketnets and Solar Sports, underwent rigorous selection process by Tag Team Sports Management led by local MMA icon Erwin Tagle.

The main cards feature double Championship fights between Sean Strickland, who is unbeaten in 11 fights and Japanese Yushe Sakashita, and Korean Kaleo Kwan versus American Joe Candon.

Trebilcock founded KOTC in Southern California and has produced over 400 fights which were broadcast live in the US, Canada, Australia and Japan.