Michael “Venom” Page (MVP) is set for his highly anticipated return to the welterweight division this weekend at UFC London. After a successful stint in the middleweight category, Page will face off against former training partner and fellow British fighter Sam Patterson on his home turf. The Page vs. Patterson bout is scheduled as part of the main card, preceding the co-main event, which features a featherweight clash between Luke Riley and Michael Aswell. The evening’s headline fight will showcase a high-stakes encounter between undefeated top contenders Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy.
Michael “Venom” Page on Not Getting a Co-Headline Spot at UFC London
MVP had previously voiced his frustration with the UFC for scheduling him against an unranked opponent. During a recent media day, when asked if he was disappointed about not co-headlining the UFC London event, “Venom” reiterated a long-held belief:
Again, it was part of the frustrations initially, but I used to say the same thing when I was at Bellator: no matter where you put me on the card, I am the main event.
When questioned whether a significant victory this weekend would guarantee him a future fight against a ranked and credible opponent, Page, who has observed the UFC’s recent unpredictable matchmaking trends, expressed his uncertainty:
“To be fair, I’m not sure. You never know. Things just change like the tides at sea. But I’m always striving for a big KO. I’m always striving to entertain. I’m always striving to put highlight videos out to showcase how talented I am.”
Michael “Venom” Page further emphasized his consistent aim to produce memorable moments inside the octagon, stating that he doesn’t actively chase highlight-reel finishes, but they naturally occur due to his distinctive fighting style.
Regarding his long-term prospects in the UFC, “Venom” highlighted his versatility, even suggesting he’s capable of competing at light heavyweight. However, his immediate focus remains firmly on the welterweight title. He added that if the top contenders in the 170-pound division continue to avoid a matchup with him, he might be compelled to move back up to middleweight to pursue a championship there.
“I seem to be capable of just going anywhere. So as long as people can get me some good fights, I kind of want to go there. It seems to be a struggle at welterweight, but my goal is the welterweight title. If the guys here continue to not want to fight me, then I might have to go up back up again and look at the middleweight belt.”
