Former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton Jackson won his second consecutive bout at UFC 96 on Saturday night, defeating Keith Jardine by unanimous decision in front of a sold-out crowd at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.

Jackson will now go on to face Rashad Evans with Jackson looking to regain his light heavyweight title.

UFC president Dana White said Jackson vs. Evans will take place at UFC 98 in Las Vegas on Saturday, May 23 providing Jackson is able to return to action.

“I want my belt back!” Jackson said post-fight after chalking up his 30th career victory.

Jackson had Jardine stumbling several times during the fight but each time Jardine fought back. In the closing seconds of the three-round bout Jackson knocked Jardine to the mat with a left hook.

“To be honest I feel like I needed these three rounds,” Jackson said. “Keith is tough, I didn’t expect him to be that tough.”

Two judges scored the bout 29-28 and the third scored it 30-27 for Jackson.

Should Jackson be unable to make UFC 98, Evans will fight Lyoto Machida.

Phil Lowe
phil@ifight365.com