UFC welterweight contender Stephen Thompson is predicting an upset to open Saturday's pay-per-view main card.
Tasked with kicking things off following the prelims at UFC 303 is the undefeated Ian Garry and former Bellator standout Michael "Venom" Page. They'll start a PPV card topped by a championship rematch between Alex Pereira and Jiří Procházka.
For "MVP," the contest marks the chance to climb close to the top five at 170 pounds in just his second Octagon outing. After signing with the UFC late last year, the Londoner debuted successfully at the expense of Kevin Holland in Miami this past March.
Having broken into the rankings immediately, Page is set for a tougher test in the form of Garry, who has won all of his UFC fights to date and most recently climbed to #7 with a victory over Geoff Neal.
Throughout their respective stints under the UFC banner, both Garry and Page have been linked to fights against veteran contender "Wonderboy." Thompson dismissed the idea of facing "MVP" owing to their friendship.
Whether because of that or his experience watching and briefly training with his unique striking style, the former title challenger is envisioning a rise into title contention for Page at Garry's expense...
Thompson: Garry Must 'Mix It Up' Or Risk Getting Knocked Out
During a video recently uploaded to his YouTube channel, Thompson provided his breakdowns and predictions for the upcoming numbered event at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena.
"Wonderboy" had a particularly vested interest in the main card opener owing to the comparisons drawn between his style and that of Page, as well as his own continued presence in the welterweight rankings.
Garry has vowed to prove his superiority in all aspects on Saturday night. Thompson, however, doesn't think the Irishman can come out on top should things stay on the feet at UFC 303.
Both of these guys are at the highest level, especially when it comes to the striking game. Now, is it smart for Ian Garry to go out there and just strike with 'MVP?' I don't think so," Thompson said. "I don't think he's on the same level as Michael 'Venom' Page, especially when it comes to the distance management, the blitzing, the speed. I think Michael 'Venom' Page is really, really fast, very accurate, and very versatile. But I think Ian Garry is a very intelligent fighter.
If I was him, I would be mixing it up. Not just striking, but obviously working my grappling, trying to lay and hang on this guy against the fence if I can...just to try and somehow fatigue this guy," Thompson continued. "I'm definitely leaning towards my man Michael 'Venom' Page. ... I do think if 'MVP' touches Ian Garry on that chin, he's gonna be able to put him out.
Page will look to prove Thompson's prediction correct come fight night. Should he accomplish that feat, "Venom" would be a sizable step closer toward an all-British title showdown with Leon Edwards.