 He won a split decision over Murilo "Ninja" Rua, but fell to Rua's younger brother, Shogun Rua, via TKO soccer kicks to the head 

Soon after his loss to Shogun, Jackson was contacted by veteran boxing and MMA trainer Juanito Ibarra, who saw potential in Jackson's natural abilities but viewed his reputation as a hindrance.After a short conversation, Jackson entrusted Ibarra, a fellow born again Christian, with the managerial and training direction of his career.Jackson then defeated Hirotaka Yokoi via TKO at Pride 30.