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Page Faces UFC Contract Crossroads After London Disappointment Threatens Future

Ryan Kowalski
Ryan Kowalski
MMA Correspondent
10:50 PM
MMA
Page Faces UFC Contract Crossroads After London Disappointment Threatens Future
Michael Page has just one fight remaining on his UFC contract following criticism of his underwhelming unanimous decision victory over Sam Patterson at UFC Fight Night 270 in London.

Michael Page finds himself at a crucial juncture in his UFC career after revealing he has only one fight remaining on his contract following an underwhelming performance that drew widespread criticism and potentially jeopardized his future with the promotion.

The 38-year-old welterweight, known as MVP, secured a unanimous decision victory over Sam Patterson at UFC Fight Night 270 in London, but the lackluster affair failed to showcase the explosive fighting style that originally attracted UFC interest when they signed him from Bellator.

I think I have got one more. I have got one more. It was a six-fight deal, Page confirmed during his appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, acknowledging the precarious nature of his position within the organization.

The revelation comes at a time when Page relationship with UFC appears strained, with the veteran fighter having publicly criticized both his matchmaking against Patterson and the organization recent controversial signing of boxer Conor Benn for a reported $15 million.

Page frustration extended to his walkout music selection, choosing Michael Jackson They Do not Care About Us for his entrance against Patterson, which many interpreted as a pointed message regarding his feelings about UFC treatment of his career trajectory.

We have not had any talks, nothing has been presented. I do not know when I am going to go speak to them or if I just wait for them to speak to me, Page explained, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his immediate future with the promotion.

The British striker acknowledged that Saturday night performance fell short of his expectations and potentially damaged his standing within the organization when he most needed to deliver a statement victory.

I was hoping this fight was that big fight that showcases what I know I can do. I took a bit of a back step now, so maybe I have to wait until the next fight. Maybe that is what they are waiting for. They are waiting to see what they bought into, Page admitted.

His 25-3 professional record includes a 4-1 mark inside the UFC octagon, but the Patterson victory generated more criticism than celebration from fans and media who expected a more dominant display from the former Bellator standout.

Page has requested more challenging opponents who will engage in the type of aggressive exchanges that allow him to demonstrate his striking ability and finishing power, rather than facing fighters who employ conservative tactical approaches.

The next fight, give me somebody that wants to come kill me. I want somebody that wants to take my head off and we can have a proper fight, and I can showcase my skills, Page stated emphatically.

I do not care where. Just give me a big name and let me put someone to bed in MVP fashion, and we can move forward with progression to the belt, he continued, expressing his desire for higher-profile matchmaking that would justify his elite fighter aspirations.

Despite his public criticism and the perceived tension with UFC management, Page emphasized his appreciation for the opportunity to compete on the sport biggest stage while acknowledging his own shortcomings in recent performances.

I think all fighters are going to have moments in their careers where they feel unappreciated or feel like things are not necessarily going in the way that they want, Page reflected on the challenges facing professional fighters.

But ultimately, it is a massive privilege and an honor to be fighting on one of the greatest combat shows in the world to ever exist. I am thankful to be given a shot, he added, demonstrating maturity despite his frustrations.

Page late entry into UFC at age 38 presents additional challenges, as he must prove his value to the organization while competing against younger opponents in their physical prime.

His championship aspirations remain intact despite the contract uncertainty, with Page expressing willingness to sign an immediate extension if UFC offers favorable terms.

The goal is the UFC. As soon as we have the next conversation about where I am going to go, how many fights is that going to be: Sign me up. I want to get a belt, Page declared.

I am happy to be here. I am excited to be here. I am just upset with myself that I have not delivered what I know I can deliver, but I am dying to show that to UFC and the world, he concluded.

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