Full Breakdown
Michael Page’s Final Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Fight Leaves His Future in Question
9/7/2026, 2:18:12 AM
The Fight at Accor Arena
On September 5, 2026, Michael “Venom” Page faced Uzbekistan’s Nursulton Ruziboev in a middle-weight bout at the Accor Arena in Paris. The three-round contest ended in a unanimous decision for Page, with judges scoring the fight 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28 in his favor. Throughout the bout Page landed 12 significant strikes to Ruziboev’s eight, while the Uzbek fighter controlled much of the first round on the ground. The Paris crowd responded with frequent boos, reflecting widespread disappointment with the lack of action.
Statistical Snapshot
- Significant strikes: Page 12, Ruziboev 8
- Total strikes: Page 49, Ruziboev 21 (per LowKickMMA)
- Decision scores: 30-27, 30-27, 29-28 (unanimous)
- UFC record: 5-1, with all five victories coming by decision; the sole loss was a decision to Ian Machado-Garry.
Contract Context
The Paris bout was the final fight on Page’s current UFC contract, which expires after six UFC appearances. Consequently, Page’s employment with the UFC is described as “on the bubble.”
Official Statements & Responses
Page expressed a desire to remain in the UFC and eventually fight for a championship, noting that he hopes the organization will “see something special in me.”
Criticism & Opposition
The fight’s entertainment value drew sharp criticism from journalists. “MVP is really one of the most frustrating fighters ever to watch,” — Tom Taylor, journalist. These assessments underscore the growing concern among commentators that Page’s low-output style may be incompatible with the UFC’s expectations for fan-driven excitement.
What’s Next?
If the UFC chooses not to renew his contract, several alternative promotions have been mentioned as potential destinations: the Professional Fighters League (PFL), Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), Misfits Boxing, and Karate Combat. Page has indicated openness to these options while still hoping for another UFC deal that would allow him to pursue a title run.
Verbatim Quotes
- “MVP is really one of the most frustrating fighters ever to watch,” — Tom Taylor, journalist
