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Quentin "Rampage" Jackson is preparing for "the biggest fight in MMA history" against Dan Henderson.

Since winning the title, he’s met a slew of celebrities. But he declines to put himself on an equal footing with other entertainment stars.

“My favorite thing since being champion has been meeting Beyonce. I don’t think I would have got that unless I was champion,” said Jackson of his meeting the pop superstar at a concert in his hometown of Memphis.

Aside from meeting Beyonce, Jackson has taken advantage of his championship to acknowledge his true fans. Since winning the title and immediately hearing the chorus of boos, he appreciates his true blue fans that know and follow him.

“I hope to meet each and everyone of you guys and shake your hands … or smack your face,” Jackson said. “Which ever one you want.”

IFL announces lineups for finals
International Fight League announced Wednesday the final lineups for the two competing teams.

The defending champion Quad Cities Silverbacks and the challengers the New York Pitbulls will battle in the finals in Hollywood, Fla., at the Seminole Hard Rock on Sept. 20.

“I think it’s fitting that our two flagship franchises meet for the World Championship rings,” said Kurt Otto, IFL commissioner and co-founder. “We’re looking forward to a night of nonstop action.”

The Pitbulls, who are coached by Renzo Gracie will fight Bryan Vetell at heavyweight, Fabio Leopoldo at middleweight, Jamal Paterson at light heavyweight, Deividas Taurosevicius at lightweight and Delson Heleno at welterweight.

Defending their championship, the Silverbacks are coached by Pat Miletich and revealed that heavyweight Ben Rothwell, middleweight Ryan McGivern, light heavyweight Mike Ciesnolevicz, lightweight Bart Palaszewski and a person to be named later will fight at welterweight. One of their stars at the weight division Rory Markham was injured during the semifinals.

Upcoming fights

• Friday: Global Fighting Championships at Mohegan Sun Arena at Uncasville, Conn. Butterbean vs. Stefan Gamlin. (888) 226-7711.
• Friday: Gladiator Fighting 46 at Radisson Grand Ballroom in Green Bay, Wis. (920) 819-4994.
• Saturday: Shooto: The Arrival at The No Limits Event Center in Irvine, Calif. (949) 251-8822.
• Saturday: Total Cage Combat at Richmond Raceway Complex in Richmond, Va. (877) 725-8849.

More news

Lm Otero / AP file

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