Greg Jackson Says He Will Corner Jon Jones Against Rashad Evans at UFC 145

Greg Jackson (left) will coach Jon Jones against Rashad Evans. | Photo: Sherdog.com

Jones revealed Jackson’s decision on his Twitter account on Saturday: “Greg Jackson confirmed today that he will be in my corner for UFC 145,” Jones wrote.

“It’s probably gonna go that way,” Jackson later told Sherdog.com. “Just out of loyalty to the team, and not being selfish.”

In a recent interview with the Sherdog Radio Network’s “Savage Dog Show,” Jackson had hinted that he was leaning toward cornering Jones against Evans on April 21 but had not made an official decision.

Evans began training at Jackson’s Mixed Martial Arts in Albuquerque, N.M,. shortly after winning Season 2 of “The Ultimate Fighter.” The former Michigan State University wrestler captured the light heavyweight belt in 2008 under the guidance of Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn, and remained with the respected team until early 2011.

Jones joined the New Mexico-based gym prior to facing Matt Hamill at “The Ultimate Fighter 10” Finale in 2009. He became the youngest champion in UFC history by defeating Mauricio Rua last March. “Suga” moved his training camp to Imperial Athletics in Boca Raton, Fla., shortly after Jones became champion, blaming both Jones and Jackson for his departure. Evans and Jones have since engaged in a very public feud in various interviews as well as social media.

Evans, who lost the 205-pound strap to Lyoto Machida at UFC 98, earned his long-awaited shot at Jones by taking a lopsided unanimous decision victory against the undefeated Phil Davis at UFC on Fox 2 in January. It will be the first title defense of 2012 for Jones, whose memorable 2011 included victories over Ryan Bader, Rua, Quinton Jackson and Machida.

UFC 145 is scheduled to take place at the Philips Arena in Atlanta on April 21. In addition to Jones-Evans, the card features a pivotal bantamweight showdown between Miguel Torres and Michael McDonald as well as a heavyweight clash between Brendan Schaub and Ben Rothwell.