Jason Jackson Bio
Jason Jackson is a Jamaican mixed martial artist competing in the Welterweight division of the Professional Fighters League (PFL). He is a former Bellator Welterweight World Champion and has competed in Titan FC, Legacy Fighting Alliance, and appeared on the UFC’s reality series The Ultimate Fighter: American Top Team vs. Blackzilians.
Early Life and Background
Jason Jackson was born on October 30, 1990, in Spanish Town, Jamaica. At age 12, he moved to South Florida, where he graduated from Miramar High School. During high school, he competed on the wrestling team, which laid the foundation for his future mixed martial arts career. Growing up, Jackson was a fan of professional wrestling and WWE, influences that shaped his competitive spirit.
He began training in mixed martial arts at 19 with The Blackzilians, a renowned MMA team known for developing top fighters. This early exposure to high-level training helped Jackson develop the skills necessary to compete professionally.
Path to MMA
Jackson started his professional MMA career in 2012, fighting in regional promotions where he compiled a 5–2 record. During this period, he faced notable opponents such as future UFC fighter Colby Covington. His early success in these promotions helped him gain recognition and opportunities to compete at higher levels.
He also participated in The Ultimate Fighter: American Top Team vs. Blackzilians in 2015, winning his first fight by majority decision before being eliminated in the second round. This exposure increased his profile within the MMA community and paved the way for his entry into larger organizations.
Jason Jackson Career
Early Career (2012–2016)
Jackson’s professional debut came in 2012, and he quickly established himself as a promising welterweight. He fought in various regional promotions, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills. His early career was marked by steady progress and notable victories that set the stage for his move to larger organizations.
In 2016, Jackson made his Titan FC debut, where he secured a unanimous decision win against Rodrigo Cavalheiro Correia. Later that year, he won the Titan FC Welterweight Championship by defeating Dhiego Lima via technical knockout in the first round. This title win was a significant milestone in his career.
Bellator MMA Breakthrough (2018–2023)
Jason Jackson debuted in Bellator MMA on August 17, 2018, at Bellator 204, winning his fight via first-round TKO. After competing briefly in Legacy Fighting Alliance, he returned to Bellator and faced Ed Ruth in 2019, losing a controversial split decision. Despite this setback, Jackson rebounded with several wins, including unanimous decision victories over Kiichi Kunimoto and Jordan Mein.
In November 2020, Jackson achieved a major upset by defeating former UFC Lightweight Champion Benson Henderson via unanimous decision. He continued his winning streak with victories over Neiman Gracie and Paul Daley in 2021. In 2022, Jackson defeated Douglas Lima by unanimous decision at Bellator 283, further solidifying his status as a top contender.
Jackson’s career peaked on November 17, 2023, when he won the Bellator Welterweight World Championship by knocking out reigning champion Yaroslav Amosov in the third round. This victory marked the first loss for Amosov and was a defining moment in Jackson’s career.
Professional Fighters League Era (2024–Present)
In 2024, Jackson continued competing at a high level, including a technical knockout win over Ray Cooper III at PFL vs. Bellator after Cooper replaced an injured opponent. However, he lost the Bellator Welterweight title to Ramazan Kuramagomedov by unanimous decision in June 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, Jackson is set to participate in the PFL Welterweight Tournament. He won his opening bout against Andrey Koreshkov via technical submission but lost a close split decision to Thad Jean in the semifinals. His involvement in the PFL highlights his ongoing commitment to competing among the elite in MMA.
Fighting Style and Strengths
Jason Jackson is known for his wrestling base, which he effectively combines with striking and submission skills. His ability to control opponents on the ground and capitalize on striking opportunities makes him a versatile and dangerous welterweight. His nickname, “The Ass-Kicking Machine,” reflects his aggressive and relentless fighting style.
Notable Events and Milestones
Jackson’s knockout of Yaroslav Amosov to claim the Bellator Welterweight World Championship stands as a career-defining moment. He is also recognized for his upset victory over Benson Henderson and his Titan FC Welterweight Championship reign. His participation in The Ultimate Fighter and multiple high-profile Bellator bouts mark key milestones.
Jason Jackson Career Wins
Jason Jackson has amassed 19 professional wins out of 25 fights, with victories coming by knockout, submission, and decision. His record includes 2 wins by knockout, 4 by submission, and 4 by decision, showcasing his well-rounded skill set.
Bellator MMA Highlights
Jackson secured numerous wins in Bellator, including his debut TKO victory and key decision wins over top contenders. His most notable achievement in Bellator was capturing the Welterweight World Championship in 2023. He has demonstrated consistency and resilience throughout his Bellator tenure.
Other Wins and Performances
Before Bellator, Jackson held the Titan FC Welterweight Championship and earned victories in Legacy Fighting Alliance. His early career featured competitive bouts against future UFC fighters, contributing to his development as a top-tier welterweight.
Jason Jackson Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Jason Jackson is married to Yanisuka, and together they have two children and two stepchildren. He resides in Hollywood, Florida, USA. Jackson’s Jamaican heritage and family life are important aspects of his identity outside the cage.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Jason Jackson is competing in the PFL Welterweight Tournament, where he won his first-round fight via technical submission. Despite a split decision loss in the semifinals, Jackson remains a formidable competitor. His performances reflect strong team dynamics with Kill Cliff FC and a focus on maintaining elite status in the welterweight division.