In a surprising turn of events Bellator star athlete Michael Venom Page has appeared on UFC’s official website. Page recently announced that after over 9 years of fighting under Bellator, he will be opting for free agency. Although MVP is uncertain of his next move, the welterweight fighter has stated that he was interested in fighting for UFC.
Michael “Venom” Page is listed on the UFC roster page on the promotion’s website 👀 pic.twitter.com/BJTVhyIuwJ
— Chamatkar Sandhu (@SandhuMMA) July 17, 2023
Over his 9 year tenure at Bellator, Michael Venom Page had amassed a record of 21 wins and 2 losses at the welterweight division. He was known for his entertaining fighting style and fought some of the best in his division.
His only two losses in Bellator came to Douglas Lima which he later avenged and a controversial split decision to Logan Storley. Michael Page’s contract with Bellator also gave him the freedom to pursue other interests. He made his debut in boxing and also debuted with bare-knuckle boxing during his time with Bellator. Given the strict nature of fighter contracts, Page had quite the lenient one that permitted him to pursue opportunities of his choice.
MVP last fought under Bellator in March against Goiti Yamauchi for the Bellator 292 card. The bout ended with MVP knocking out Yamauchi via a phenomenal head kick within 26 seconds of the first round. Ever since then, Bellator was not able to find a fight that worked for him and he opted free agency.
Michael Page during one of his interviews hinted that he would like to fight for UFC. He has also announced that he will be present for UFC Fight Night in London on July 22, 2023, to figure out his next move and fight once again.
Why did Michael Venom Page leave Bellator?
MMA veteran and one of the most exciting welterweights outside of UFC, Michael Venom Page, has opted for free agency. Page worked with Bellator for over 9 years and recently announced that his contract with Bellator has expired.
During his interview on the MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, Page stated that he wanted to explore other possibilities and check where he stands. The 36-year-old welterweight fighter also revealed that his contract expired as Bellator could not book a fight that worked for both parties.
According to Page Bellator’s inability to find him a fight stemmed from the uncertainties revolving around the company’s future. Bellator President Scott Coker recently revealed that the organization was looking for a partner. Which is why they might have not been able to focus on MVP.
“I think there’s a lot going on in the back office with their potential transition, as well, and new owners and so forth. I definitely feel like they kind of missed something there,” said Page in his interview.
By becoming a free agent, Michael Page will look forward to making his debut in UFC. Regardless, MVP hasn’t completely ruled out a return to Bellator and as of now will explore his options.
