Updated

Updated · MMA Mania · Sep 4

Michael Page Vows UFC Paris Reintroduction in Possible Final Octagon Fight on Sept. 5

Updated

Updated · MMA Mania · Sep 4

Michael Page Vows UFC Paris Reintroduction in Possible Final Octagon Fight on Sept. 5

Q: Why was a high-profile kickboxing champion forced to abandon his natural weight class just to find willing opponents?

He moved up because top welterweights were not willing to fight him, and the division had become too congested with contenders waiting for title-positioning opportunities rather than taking risky matchups. The fighter in question is Michael “Venom” Page, a former 10-time kickboxing world champion whose unorthodox, high-risk striking style made him both dangerous and awkward to match. Page said welterweight was full of fighters “sitting on the sidelines” and acting tactically, while his team kept offering names and getting nowhere. As a result, opportunities at his natural class dried up. That left Page with a practical choice: either stay idle at 170 pounds or accept more available fights at 185. He chose middleweight, saying it offered a steadier path to regular activity even if it meant facing naturally bigger opponents. Reporting around UFC Paris made clear this was not simply a preference change but a response to matchmaking reality. His reputation also played a role. Opponents were wary of becoming another highlight-reel finish, and Page argued that many fighters became defensive or looked to neutralize him rather than engage. Combined with the backlog at welterweight, that made it hard for him to secure the kind of meaningful fights he wanted. So the reason he abandoned his natural weight class was straightforward: the welterweight division was jammed, elite names were reluctant to face him, and middleweight was where the UFC could actually give him opponents.

1 articles · Updated · MMA Mania · Sep 4

Michael "Venom" Page said UFC Paris on Sept. 5 is his chance to "reintroduce" himself, framing the bout as a possible last fight in the promotion.
The 8th-ranked Briton has won 5 of 6 UFC fights, but a lack of highlight finishes and several flat performances have left his future uncertain if he delivers another dud.
Page said he needs higher output against No. 15 Nursulton Ruziboev at middleweight, a matchup that reflects his difficulty landing top opponents despite his profile.
He also criticized UFC's strict walkout rules, saying the promotion limits the entrances and personality that helped make him a standout before joining the Octagon.

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MMA Mania2d ago

Michael 'Venom' Page Vows Reintroduction at UFC Paris

After another cautious decision win at UFC Paris, will Michael Page's lack of explosive finishes cost him his promotional future?

How much do the UFC's rigid presentation rules stifle the marketability and star power of natural showmen like Michael Page?

Why was a high-profile kickboxing champion forced to abandon his natural weight class just to find willing opponents?

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MMA Mania2d ago

Michael 'Venom' Page Vows Reintroduction at UFC Paris

Michael Page Vows UFC Paris Reintroduction in Possible Final Octagon Fight on Sept. 5

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