Michael “Venom” Page (24-3) has expressed frustration with UFC matchmaking, citing a lack of clear communication and defined paths toward title contention. Page contrasts his current UFC experience with his time in Bellator, where he felt there was more transparency.
Page explained that he feels like he’s “working blind” due to the lack of transparency from the promotion. He questions whether his current matchmaking reflects his standing in the division.
Page joined the UFC in 2024 and holds a 3-1 record in the promotion, including a win over Jared Cannonier at UFC 319 on August 16, 2025.
MVP on UFC Matchmaking
Page elaborated on his frustration with the lack of clear goals in UFC matchmaking, making it difficult for fighters to plan their careers. Michael ‘Venom’ Page said via Cageside Press:
It’s very difficult to say. I just don’t know how they’re making their decisions. It feels like there’s no clear communication that ‘this is what we’re looking for.’ Even rankings don’t really mean anything. Before, at least you had an idea: if you get to that ranking, something might happen. Now it seems sporadic. Without clear direction from the UFC, it’s hard for anyone to speculate until there’s a clear ‘these are the things that will push you forward.’
Page’s upcoming fight at UFC London against Sam Patterson is part of a main card that includes Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy, Luke Riley vs. Michael Aswell, and Roman Dolidze vs. Christian Leroy Duncan. UFC London takes place on March 21, 2026, at the O2 Arena.
