Rashad Evans was eagerly anticipating his boxing debut against his longtime rival, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. However, as the fight date approached, the UFC Hall of Famer realized that the promoters were not fulfilling their promises to the fighters.
This realization led to a last-minute decision by both Evans and Jackson to withdraw from the event. They chose to avoid a potentially problematic situation where they would fight but might not receive their due compensation afterwards.
“Negotiations essentially broke down regarding the promises made to Rampage and myself before the fight. These promises were not being honored,” Evans explained to MMA Fighting on Monday. “We attempted to find solutions to proceed, but there simply wasn`t enough time to satisfy all parties. Ultimately, it was decided that it would be best to cancel the fight. It was a disappointing outcome.”
Evans continued, “Firstly, we had been building up to this for a considerable time, and we both trained diligently for it. We were serious about this fight and not taking it lightly. It was a significant focus for both of us. He is in excellent condition, and I also got into great shape. We were genuinely looking forward to it.”
While Evans refrained from disclosing the specific contractual details, he confirmed that financial aspects were a major factor in the decision to call off the fight.
The former UFC light heavyweight champion admitted that concerns about industry stories, where fighters are promised certain payments but are then shortchanged after the event, influenced his decision to withdraw.
“Finances were definitely a key component,” Evans stated. “This is where things started to go wrong. We couldn`t reach an agreement that ensured we would be fully compensated before the fight was to proceed and that all obligations would be met after the fight. The last thing we wanted was to be in a position where we wouldn`t receive the agreed-upon payment after competing.”
“There have been reports of fighters in boxing matches who received significantly less than their negotiated earnings. Therefore, we implemented certain safeguards to ensure we met specific benchmarks and could confirm everything was in order when the time came. We were unable to reach such an agreement.”
One particular situation that came to mind was the case of UFC veterans Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz, who faced each other in a boxing match in July 2024. Diaz later filed a lawsuit against Fanmio, the event promoter, for $9 million, claiming he was still owed from the event.
Masvidal later told MMA Fighting that he had to remain silent about his payment issues from that event but assured that “everything will be revealed” eventually.
This situation caught Evans` attention and fueled his doubts about potentially facing a similar predicament with his and Rampage`s boxing match.
“We wanted to learn from the situation involving Diaz and Masvidal and ensure that we were protected and that all commitments were fulfilled before we even stepped into the ring,” Evans said. “Unfortunately, this couldn`t be achieved in time.”
“They are still working on finalizing the event, and things are still in motion. I am unsure if a solution can be found, and if they can present a last-minute resolution, we might be able to proceed. However, as it stands now, it`s not something we can move forward with.”
Despite their UFC rivalry and plans to renew it in boxing, Evans confirmed he consulted with Rampage before the fight cancellation.
“We discussed it, and we made sure we were both comfortable with withdrawing from this promotion and potentially rescheduling for another time,” Evans said. “Whether we like it or not, he is my opponent on fight night, but there’s also a unique connection that develops when you have a rival like Rampage. We have a very special dynamic and great fighting chemistry. That’s something you value because it makes fighting more enjoyable.”
It`s understandably disappointing for both veteran fighters, who had paused other commitments to prepare for this boxing match.
While Evans maintains a regular training regime, he hasn`t been subjecting his body to the intense workouts required for a fight camp. With the Rampage fight cancelled, Evans acknowledges he will need to adjust his focus back to his regular activities, but he hasn`t completely dismissed the possibility of rescheduling the fight.
In fact, Evans is open to working with a different promoter, potentially one associated with marquee events like those organized by Misfits Boxing or even a show headlined by a star like Jake Paul.
“I’m going to reassess, but I definitely still want to box Rampage,” Evans stated. “I enjoyed dedicating myself and getting back into the fighting mindset. Since retiring from active fighting, I’ve been engaged in other pursuits, developing myself outside of fighting, which is important. But there’s still an itch that needs scratching, and I still have that drive. Before I fully embrace being a veteran figure, I want to experience it at least one more time, or maybe a couple more times.”
“If the opportunity arises, and we find another promotion that can make it happen, I am all for it. It`s about ensuring we are both taken care of and that it makes sense for both of us. We know there are many promotions that fit into this space and align with what we do. The rise of the influencer market has been positive, it’s well-received by fans, and it’s entertaining.”
Evans is not giving up on the boxing match with Rampage until all avenues are explored, but he is also not going to dwell on matters outside his control.
He has successfully transitioned to a life beyond fighting, including business ventures and combat sports analysis, providing him with plenty to focus on, even though he still desires to face Rampage in the ring again.
“Life continues even if this doesn’t happen in the immediate future,” Evans concluded. “I’ll reduce my training intensity to two or three times a week and refocus on my other businesses and activities outside of fighting.”
