Michael “Venom” Page continues to make waves in the UFC, and after his dominant victory over Shara Magomedov at UFC Saudi Arabia, he’s already eyeing his next challenge. While many expected Page to set his sights on top welterweight contenders, the flashy British striker has something else in mind—thrilling matchups, even if it means jumping weight classes. And one name he surprisingly mentioned? Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jiri Prochazka.
MVP’s UFC Run Gains Momentum
Page secured a unanimous decision win over Magomedov in Riyadh’s co-main event this past weekend (Feb. 1, 2025). While he controlled the fight from start to finish, outclassing his opponent with superior movement and striking, MVP wasn’t completely satisfied with his performance.
“I wanted a bit more output from myself,” Page admitted at the post-fight press conference. “I’m happy with the result, obviously, but I just know I could’ve done more.”
Page, who previously dominated in Bellator, acknowledged that the transition to the UFC has come with some unexpected mental adjustments.
“There is an effect of being in the UFC,” he continued. “The magnitude of UFC’s brand, the event—it’s weighing on me a little bit and making me a little more hesitant. At Bellator, there was no hesitation. I was in there, sure of myself.”
Still, despite feeling he’s holding back, Page is 2-1 in the UFC, with his only loss being a razor-close decision against Ian Machado Garry. The only thing missing? One of his signature viral knockouts.
Weight Classes? MVP Just Wants Big Fights
While Page has spent most of his career at welterweight, his recent fight against Magomedov was at middleweight. However, the British striker made it clear he isn’t tied to a specific division.
“I’m the kind of person that would move up another weight division and fight someone like Jiri [Prochazka] because it’s an exciting fight,” Page revealed. “Like two tornadoes clashing.”
Prochazka, known for his wild, unpredictable striking and iron chin, typically competes at 205 pounds, making him a significantly larger opponent for Page. Still, MVP seems unbothered by the size difference and is focused on securing the most thrilling matchups possible.
A Showdown with Leon Edwards?
One fight Page has consistently mentioned is a showdown with fellow British star Leon Edwards. Despite Edwards still holding the UFC Welterweight Championship, Page insists his interest in the fight isn’t about the belt—it’s about the moment.
“The only [opponent] I really talk about is Leon Edwards, but that’s more so at a specific location,” Page explained. “It’s only for the UK. It’s not about him personally—I just think the fight would be great for my fans over there.”
With Edwards set to defend his title in March against Jack Della Maddalena, Page may have to wait for that opportunity. But given how fresh he came out of UFC Saudi Arabia, he could easily step in as a backup if needed.
What’s Next for MVP?
Whether it’s a UK showdown with Edwards or a jaw-dropping fight with Prochazka, one thing is clear—Michael “Venom” Page isn’t here to play it safe. He wants the biggest, most exciting fights possible, and after another strong performance, the UFC has every reason to make that happen.
Could we see MVP vs. Jiri Prochazka in the near future? In the UFC, anything is possible.
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