Israel Adesanya, a UFC Hall of Famer, has raised doubts about the UFC’s choice to release middleweight fighter Michael Page. Despite holding a 5-1 record within the UFC, Page was not offered a new contract after his previous agreement ended. His most recent bout—a lackluster decision victory over Nursulton Ruziboev at UFC Paris in early September—was considered his dullest performance to date. Given Page’s expensive contract and underwhelming fights, the UFC’s decision to part ways with him seemed logical. However, Adesanya feels the organization made a mistake in cutting ties with Page.
On the “Precision” Podcast, Adesanya expressed skepticism toward the UFC’s move, suggesting the promotion usually handles matters on an individual basis but got this one wrong. He pointed out that Page’s only loss was to Ian Garry, a fighter who recently challenged pound-for-pound leader Islam Makhachev, emphasizing Page’s toughness in the cage. Adesanya explained that Page’s style involves waiting for opponents to take the initiative, making it difficult for them to land clean shots. He likened fighting Page to a frustrating challenge where the opponent is elusive and doesn’t engage aggressively.
Although Adesanya disagrees with the UFC’s decision, he acknowledges why they might have chosen to release Page. Unlike his dominant knockout performances in Bellator MMA, all six of Page’s UFC fights went to decision and lacked excitement, largely due to his low strike output. Adesanya would have liked to see the UFC give Page another chance to showcase his former form, but it appears that opportunity won’t come. He noted that while Page was a significant investment from Bellator and is winning, the UFC likely expected the same thrilling performances he once delivered. Adesanya still finds moments of excitement in Page’s fights against competitors like Kevin Holland and Jared Cannonier.
Fan Take: This news is significant for fight fans because it highlights the tough business decisions behind the scenes in MMA, where talent and entertainment value must align. Losing a unique stylist like Michael Page could mean fewer dynamic and unconventional fighters in the UFC, potentially impacting the diversity of fighting styles showcased in the sport.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
