UFC welterweight contender Michael ‘Venom’ Page feels Shara Magomedov presents a different test than either of his two previous opponents in the Octagon.
Michael ‘Venom’ Page‘s karate style has given his opponents fits during his MMA career, and has resulted in many of his foes implementing a grappling-first gameplan. Ahead of a potential clash with Shara Magomedov, Page is expecting a different approach if they meet in the Octagon.
Michael Page and Shara Magomedov teased a potential UFC Saudi Arabia booking in recent weeks. Magomedov, one of the most promising stars in the middleweight division, is fresh off another impressive knockout at UFC 308.
Speculation has run rampant over whether or not Page will make the move up to 185lbs for a potential fight with Magomedov. If both sides sign the dotted line, the fight would be a fan-friendly encounter, featuring two of the most dangerous stand-up specialists in the UFC today.
But, fighters have taken advantage of Page’s mediocre grappling over his last few performances. While most of his past opponents promised to knock him out and challenge him on the feet, many fights have begun with takedown attempts and grappling scrambles.
Michael Page isn’t as concerned about that possibility with Shara Magomedov.
Michael ‘Venom’ Page believes Shara Magomedov won’t turn into a wrestler in their fight
In a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, Michael Page explained how Shara Magomedov presents a different challenge than most of his previous opponents.
“For me, the amount of times people have spoken about how they’re gonna knock me out, the better striker, and the same thing happens over and over again,” Page said. “The likes of Paul Daley, Ian Garry, so many people that want to grab me because it’s just different when I’m in front of you…
“At the same time, I honestly believe he’s going to be very confident in his ability to strike. He doesn’t seem amazing on the floor, I’m sure he’s capable…but I agree it’s going to be fireworks up until the fight, and then maybe he might make a few different decisions. But if he doesn’t, perfect, let’s make it a stand-up fight!”
After weeks of teasing a stand-up war, Ian Machado Garry took a grappling-first approach to his matchup with Page. Garry went on to win the fight by unanimous decision at UFC 303.