Michael Page fights final UFC bout in Paris
The Londoner faces Nursulton Ruziboev as he looks to discuss his future with the organisation.
Michael 'Venom' Page is scheduled to fight the final bout of his current UFC contract this Saturday in Paris. The 39-year-old Londoner will face Nursulton Ruziboev in a middleweight contest. Page has had four wins from his five fights in the UFC since joining in 2024, with all his victories coming by decision.
Known for his distinctive striking style, Page has acknowledged that he has not performed to his own expectations during his UFC tenure, noting the absence of a stoppage victory. He has spoken openly about his dissatisfaction with the infrequency of his fights and what he perceives as a misalignment with the organisation's plans for him.
Page's UFC Tenure
Page has fought twice at middleweight during his UFC career, defeating Sharabutdin Magomedov and Jared Cannonier, despite having extensive experience as a welterweight. A potential bout with fellow Briton Leon Edwards has not materialised. His opponent, Nursulton Ruziboev, joined the UFC in 2024 and has a professional record that includes 20 submissions and four stoppages in his MMA career. Ruziboev has competed in 50 MMA fights, with one defeat in his five UFC appearances.
Page stated, "I'm still buzzing to be in this game, but then there's also [the fact] I feel like I haven't delivered what I wanted to deliver." He added, "We (Page and the UFC) don't seem to be as aligned as I thought we would be. Maybe at the beginning I felt like we were - something's changed."
Future Discussions
With his contract nearing its end, Page is a notable name who could attract interest from rival promotions, having spent a significant portion of his career with Bellator. However, the Londoner is keen to engage in discussions with the UFC following his fight on Saturday. "This fight is important to re-establish myself with the UFC," Page said. "Then sit down with them and say 'OK, guys, can I have an idea of what you expect of me? Can I have an idea of what direction is best for me to work towards? Can I have an idea of what it is that you guys need from me?'" He concluded, "And then we get to work... I prefer if I have targets, and I have an idea of what I'm supposed to do, then I go and attack it."
Questions this report answers
01When and where is Michael Page's next fight?
Michael 'Venom' Page is scheduled to fight this Saturday in Paris. This bout marks the final fight on his current UFC contract and he will face Nursulton Ruziboev.
02What has Michael Page said about his UFC career?
Page has expressed frustration with the frequency of his fights and a perceived lack of alignment with the UFC. He feels he has underperformed, having won four of his five fights by decision without a stoppage.
03What are Michael Page's plans after this fight?
After his bout in Paris, Page intends to sit down with the UFC to discuss his future. He wants to understand their expectations and the direction they see him working towards within the organisation.
Support is available without a police report
Find London services, specialist support and the rights set out in the Victims’ Code. If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Find victim supportSend a correction or case update
If a hearing, charge or outcome has changed, send the court, case number and source document so we can update the record.
Contact the desk
