Michael “Venom” Page is set to make his return to the welterweight division this weekend at UFC London, following a successful period at middleweight. He will face his former training partner, fellow British fighter Sam Patterson. This highly anticipated welterweight clash is part of the main card, preceding the featherweight co-main event between Luke Riley and Michael Aswell. The evening’s headliner will feature an undefeated showdown between Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy.
Michael “Venom” Page on His Card Placement at UFC London
Discussing his position on the fight card, Michael “Venom” Page had previously voiced his frustration with the UFC for matching him against an unranked opponent. During media day, when questioned about his potential disappointment regarding not co-main eventing UFC London, Page confidently stated:
“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.”
Asked if a significant win this weekend would pave the way for a bout against a ranked opponent, Page, who has recently experienced the UFC’s unpredictable matchmaking, expressed uncertainty. “To be fair, I’m not sure. You never know. Things just change like the tides at sea,” he remarked. However, he emphasized his consistent goal: “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.” He further clarified that due to his distinctive style, creating memorable “highlight reel” finishes comes naturally to him, rather than being something he actively pursues.
Regarding his long-term UFC aspirations, “Venom” indicated his versatility, even suggesting a potential move to light heavyweight. Currently, however, his primary focus remains on securing the welterweight title. He stated that if top 170-pound fighters continue to avoid him, he might consider returning to the middleweight division.
“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.”
