SUMMARY
- Michael "Venom" Page signed a multi-fight deal with the UFC in early 2024.
- Over the years, he has fought in MMA organizations like Bellator and more.
Michael Venom Page has been one of the UFC’s most sought-after signings in recent times. Having made the decision on his future earlier this year, Page’s UFC debut has been heavily anticipated by many. After all, fighters of his caliber and poise are hard to come by too often.
For those unaware, the UFC previously signed “Venom” to a multi-fight deal in early 2024. Following a lot of discussion regarding his future, fans were glad to see him become a part of the UFC. At the same time, ardent supporters of the fighter were excited for the transition to the big stage from Bellator.
Having made his MMA debut in 2012, Page has fought in his regional circuits and Bellator for a little over a decade. During his storied MMA career, he has taken on names like Evangelista Santos, Douglas Lima, Logan Storley, Goiti Yamauchi, and many more. Now, he is all set for the next chapter when he takes on Kevin Holland at UFC 299.
Although the fight was previously rumored for UFC 297, contract discussions likely stalled the fight. Regardless, the fight will be part of an already stacked card which is sure to bring a lot of eyeballs. All things considered, it will be a big moment in Michael’s career and as always, his coaches and crew will have him in top shape for the occasion.
Michael Page’s gym, coaches and trainers
For the most part, a fighter’s gym, coaches, and trainers make up the most important part of their team. From an early age, Michael learned kickboxing under the tutelage of his father, Curtis Page Sr. at the age of 3. Thereafter, he would go on to win his first kickboxing tournament by the age of 5 and compete internationally by the time he was 8 years old.
Eventually, Michael would go on to transition to MMA and consider joining the reputed American Top Team gym. With the reputed gym operating out of Miami, it would have made for a good choice, considering Page’s elder siblings also lived nearby. However, he instead chose to join London Shootfighters in July 2011 and has been with the team ever since.
Notably, the 36-year-old has worked closely with Alexis and Marios Demetriades who are his head coach and boxing coach, respectively. Other coaches at the institute include Paul Ivens, Simeon Kyurchiev, Steve Newland, Luiz Tosta, Ashraf Uddin, and Andy Zajac. Whilst London Shootfighters is his main gym, Michael has also been known to train in Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Gracie Barra.
Who has Michael Venom Page sparred with ahead of his UFC debut?
Having spent a lot of time training at London Shootfighters, Michael Page has trained and sparred alongside some notable names. However, as is quite evident, he has trained with athletes from different combat sports. As such, Page has sparred with the likes of Alexander Gustafsson, Chris Eubank, Jr., Frank Muñoz, Derek Chisora, Muhammed Lawal, Darren Stewart, Johnny Walker, Gegard Mousasi, Neil Magny, and more.
Interestingly, MVP has reportedly sparred with controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate as well. Similarly, he is said to have influenced the boxing stance of YouTuber and PRIME Hydration owner, KSI. At the same time, Page has been in touch with many UFC fighters such as Israel Adesanya, Kamaru Usman, and others.
Notably, he has trained with Daniel ‘DC’ Cormier in the past. For his fight against Kevin Holland, Page has worked extensively with UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. With that said, MVP is looking like an impressive addition to the already-growing English contingent in the UFC.