PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — Saheeb “The Juice” Jackson is a proud graduate of Woonsocket High School, a dedicated Marine Corps veteran, and an undefeated professional MMA fighter.
Even with all these accomplishments, Jackson says this is only the beginning of his journey.
The 26-year-old fighter joined the Marine Corps and served for seven years, five in the reserves and the last two active in funeral services. Jackson said those years in the military prepared him for his next goal in life: a world title.
“I believe this is going to the highest-level UFC champion. That’s my dream. That’s my goal,” he told 12 News. “I didn’t get into the sport to just be around and hang around, right? I want to be somebody that makes it to the top and my legacy is known forever.”
And Jackson is certainly starting to build that legacy for himself. He started his professional MMA career in February 2024 at Foxwoods Casino. He won that fight by TKO in just 26 seconds against Anthony Rutkowski.
His second fight in May 2024 was even more impressive, winning in just nine seconds against Daniel Arriaga by submission.
His most recent fight in August against Gary Sheppard was also a Round 1 win by TKO, improving his record to 3-0.
And his plan to get to the top is simple.
“I’m going to just keep beating these guys up,” Jackson said with a smile. “One by one, line them up and knock them down.”
Although he is working to build his own story, Jackson’s journey is about more than just personal accolades. Being from the smallest state which doesn’t get the most national attention, Jackson wants to make a name for Rhode Island.
“It means a lot. I’m showing off for all of Rhode Island and not just myself, and it would be great to put Rhode Island on the Map,” Jackson said.
Not only does Jackson want to represent his state, he wants to inspire those in it to unlock their potential and go after their dreams, just like he did.
“I think for people in Rhode Island, they should go out and chase what they want to do and become who they want to be, because you never know until you try it,” he said.
Jackson inspires local kids through coaching at Tri-Force MMA on Conant Street in Pawtucket.
“I come over here, I teach the kids, I see them growing up, I see the things that they do and I see that they emulate adults,” he explained. “It lets me know that what I’m doing is being watched and I need to watch what I’m doing because there are people looking up to me, especially the kids.”
For now, Jackson is coaching his teammate who is training for a title fight in New York, while also seeking opportunities to engage in community service.