Michael Page says UFC big fights have been ‘very difficult’ to get

Michael "Venom" Page has voiced growing frustration with the UFC's matchmaking, claiming that securing fights against top-ranked opponents has become increasingly difficult despite his status as an elite competitor. Page (25-3) is slated to face Nursulton Ruziboev (37-9) in a middleweight bout at UFC Paris on September 5, but the matchup represents another instance of the Englishman failing to secure the high-profile opponent he believes he deserves.

Page, a former Bellator standout known for highlight-reel finishes, expressed his exasperation in an interview with Ariel Helwani. "In all honesty, it's been frustrating," Page explained. "I feel like it's crazy that I've reached the pinnacle of MMA and trying to get a name in the Top 10 seems very, very difficult." He described a pattern of submitted opponent suggestions followed by repeated rejections, creating what he views as an endless cycle of disappointment.

The 39-year-old has compiled a 4-1 record in the UFC, with his sole loss coming against Ian Garry, who next challenges Islam Makhachev for the welterweight title. However, Page's UFC performances have not matched the dominance he displayed in Bellator; he has yet to secure a finish inside the Octagon despite his reputation for spectacular knockouts. This drought may partially explain the reluctance from potential opponents to accept matchups.

Page revealed that his UFC Paris fight marks the final bout on his current contract, adding urgency to his pursuit of a marquee opponent. He expressed skepticism about the promotion's willingness to renew if his contract does expire, suggesting that both sides may be reassessing their long-term commitment. For now, Page faces Ruziboev—a formidable opponent but not the headline name the veteran feels he has earned.