Michael “Venom” Page believes his next opponent is lacking authenticity.
UFC 303 will act as the sophomore Octagon appearance for England’s Page. The former Bellator Welterweight contender gets another big stage to showcase his skills when tasked with Ireland’s Ian Machado Garry next month (Sat., June 29, 2024).
The card features the return of the sport’s biggest star, Conor McGregor, who battles Lightweight contender, Michael Chandler. “The Notorious” factor amplifies the card no matter who else is on it, but for “MVP,” he sees a lot of imitation in his undefeated 14-0 counterpart.
“I think he d—k-rides Conor McGregor,” Page said on The MMA Hour. “He’s like the fake version of Conor McGregor. If Conor McGregor was a natural, pretty woman, he’s like the BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) version, a bad BBL version. ‘BBL’ Garry.
“It feels like he’s just grabbing on the coattails of Conor,” he continued. “For me, it doesn’t bother me either way. Obviously, being on a card with Conor is amazing. Yes, we know there’s going to be loads of eyes, but I love creating my own shine. It doesn’t bother me either way. I could be on the worst card in the world and if I’m on it, I’m going to bring eyes, I’m going to make noise, I’m going to do big things. I’m going to create attention for that show, I don’t need anybody else. But for him, I think he’s trying the fast route to the top and the fast route to fame, which only last so long. I’m glad this has happened because I’m looking forward to derailing this hype.”
Page has become one of the greatest showmen in mixed martial arts (MMA) throughout his 24-fight career (22-2), whether in action or for walkouts. Garry, 26, was angling for a match up against three-time title challenger, Colby Covington, before a Page bout materialized. Like Covington, the Brit ultimately feels Garry does some personality manufacturing.
“His antics just feel a bit fake, a bit forced,” Page said. “Something I’ve said about Colby before as well. Trying too hard. I don’t really believe that’s his personality. I’m sure he’s actually a cool guy, but he’s trying to create as much attention, whether it be negative or not. For me, just be yourself, whatever yourself is. Don’t get me wrong, try to market yourself correctly, but just being the bad guy because, it seems a bit fake. It seems a bit forced. But it is what it is. Obviously, he created a lot of noise for himself, but that kind of stuff, in my opinion, won’t last very long.”
Page won his UFC debut against Kevin Holland via a unanimous decision at UFC 299 this past March 2024.