UFC fighter Kevin Holland abruptly ended his UFC 316 Media Day session on Wednesday afternoon after a question about his ongoing feud with MMA veteran Rampage Jackson. The heated exchange took place ahead of Holland`s upcoming bout at UFC 316.
Their conflict originates from a controversial guest appearance by Holland earlier this year on the “Jaxxon” podcast hosted by the former light-heavyweight champion. A heated argument ensued during the podcast, during which the welterweight contender expressed interest in fighting the much larger veteran despite their significant size difference.
This podcast incident occurred while Holland was training for a fight against Reinier De Ridder at UFC 311, which he ultimately lost by submission. He soon returned to competition at UFC London, securing a comeback win against Gunnar Nelson back at the 170lb welterweight division.
Holland`s Media Day Exit
During his press availability today, Kevin Holland first mentioned that he was still owed money for his appearance on Rampage Jackson`s podcast. He then reacted strongly when a reporter inquired about the current state of their relationship.
Known for his outspoken style, Holland stated that the contentious podcast interview had discouraged him from giving further interviews. He commented, “Ever since the Jaxxon Podcast interview I really don’t do none of that s— any more, they killed it for everybody.”
He added concerning payment from 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 asked directly about his relationship with Jackson, he replied with apparent frustration, “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.”
Although he remained briefly afterward for photographs, Holland was visibly annoyed by the reporter`s question.
The Incident on the Jaxxon Podcast
Holland`s appearance on the “Jaxxon” podcast occurred in January, shortly before his fight against Reinier De Ridder in California. The discussion quickly became heated, nearly resulting in a physical confrontation between Jackson and Holland.
Holland, known for his provocations, brought up the unlikely idea of fighting the former UFC champion. Jackson responded firmly, “That’s the last thing he wants to do is fight me.” Holland insisted, “I still want to. I don’t give a f— about the fight on Saturday.” The 46-year-old Jackson replied more sternly, “I’m being real with you young buck, you don’t want to fight me.” Holland shot back, “That sounds good,” to which Jackson concluded, “Sometimes, people don’t know what they want. You don’t want to fight me.”
