The mystique of Rampage may be too much for Griffin
Now that fight day has finally arrived, many varying opinions continue sound off leading up to the Quinton Jackson-Forrest Griffin clash. Plenty of hype has been generated, arguments have been made and even a season of The Ultimate Fighter has attempted to add to the mystique of this main event. But is most of that mystique simply fabricated? Some might answer that question with a negative, however a look into each fighter’s past provides a pretty solid affirmative.
Griffin is coming off the biggest win of his career after submitting Maurico Rua. Yet, Griffin is probably still not considered to be one of the top five light heavyweights in the world. A win over Jackson would certainly thrust him into that top five, but how realistic are his chances?
When talking about mystique, none can deny that Jackson has created a unique one of his one. For it is a gripping sight to watch Jackson make his way into the octagon with a chain draped around his neck and a ferocious look on his face. He then brings a furious fighting style which can even intimidate people in the audience. There is a certain awe directed towards only a few fighters, and Jackson is indeed the recipient of that awe.
Now Jackson cannot rest on the laurels of mystique alone when he steps into the octagon tonight. But Jackson’s mystique was also created by his past success. And now, Jackson seems to be at the top of his game. Griffin will probably be able to overlook the mystique of Jackson, although he may have a tough time handling the fighting prowess of the number one light heavyweight in the world.
So while hype will continue to follow this fight all the way up to is beginning, it’s hard to envision Griffin walking away with a victory. It is almost if there is an ominous sense in the air. And even if fans aren’t treated to a long, competitive fight, they will be able to watch one of mma’s best at his best. Tonight at UFC 86, the main event might just turn out to be the simple fact that the audience was able to witness the ever-growing mystique of Rampage Jackson.
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