UFC fighter Kevin Holland abruptly ended his Media Day session for UFC 316 earlier today after questions arose concerning his significant dispute with fellow fighter Rampage Jackson.
The strained relationship between the two stems from a contentious episode of Jackson`s Jaxxon podcast earlier in the year. During a heated exchange, Holland, who competes at welterweight, expressed a willingness to fight Jackson, a former light-heavyweight champion, despite the considerable difference in their weight classes.
This incident occurred while Holland was preparing for a bout against Reinier De Ridder at UFC 311, a fight he subsequently lost via submission. He soon returned to action at UFC London, securing a victory over Gunnar Nelson back in the welterweight division (170 lbs).
Holland Ends Media Session Over Jackson Questions
During his media availability session earlier today, Holland was questioned about his past appearances on Jackson`s Jaxxon podcast. He initially stated he was still awaiting payment for his participation before reacting angrily to a reporter`s query about the current state of his relationship with Jackson.
Known for his outspoken nature, Holland suggested that the controversial podcast interview has led him to avoid media interactions. He was quoted saying, “Ever since the Jaxxon Podcast interview I really don’t do none of that s— any more, they killed it for everybody.
He then added regarding the podcast hosts, “Speaking of that, they still owe me a couple grand and they always do a bad job of paying me on the first of the month. They usually pay around the tenth, I don’t know if they’ve got a money problem but they’ve got to do better with that.”
When pressed specifically about his relationship with Jackson, the question visibly agitated Holland. He responded, appearing surprised, “My current relationship with Rampage Jackson? Bro, Rampage Jackson’s not currently in the UFC is he? Then get off his d—, thank you. I’m out of here guys, have a good day.”
Despite his outburst, Holland remained briefly for photographs but clearly expressed displeasure with the line of questioning.
Recap of the Heated Podcast Incident
The confrontational episode on the Jaxxon Podcast took place in January, shortly before Holland`s fight against Reinier De Ridder. The discussion quickly escalated, nearly resulting in a physical altercation between Jackson and Holland.
Holland brought up the possibility of a fight between them, which Jackson dismissed, saying, “That’s the last thing he wants to do is fight me.” Holland retorted, “I still want to. I don’t give a f— about the fight on Saturday.”
Jackson, 46, responded more firmly, “I’m being real with you young buck, you don’t want to fight me.” Holland challenged him again, “That sounds good,” leading Jackson to reiterate, “Sometimes, people don’t know what they want. You don’t want to fight me.”
Jack Thornley