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It looks like we could be seeing Michael Page in the UFC after all.
It was revealed earlier this week that the former Bellator welterweight star, 36, was no longer contracted with the Santa Monica-based promotion and was effectively MMA's hottest free agent.
As fate would have it, UFC London took place last night and “MVP” — a resident of London — was in attendance. But that wasn't all.
Page was actually featured during the UFC London broadcast as well.
Michael Page featured on the #UFCLondon broadcast. 👀 pic.twitter.com/77Ro6WOrU6
— Danny Segura (@dannyseguratv) July 22, 2023
Given that the UFC decided to feature Page, it appears all but likely that they are at the very least, interested in signing the Londoner.
That seems to be even more so the case after UFC executive Dave Shaw commented on the prospect and even mentioned how Page would be an exciting addition to the roster during the post-fight press conference.
“Perhaps (the UFC is interested in signing Michael Page). I’ve got no idea,” Shaw said (via MMA Junkie). “I assume that we would, given the fact that he’s here. Maybe he’s a free agent, but definitely a question for Dana (White).
“We were talking about it the other day, a long list of individuals who’ve come over (to the UFC), and done really well in other promotions that have come over. Look at (Justin) Gaethje and (Michael) Chandler and a few other guys. It would be pretty exciting to add him to the mix, for sure.”
Page — who boasts a 21-2 MMA record — was a poster boy for Bellator and had competed under the promotion since 2014. However, his contract recently expired after parties failed to finalize a fight for him that worked for everyone.
Along with the uncertainty of Bellator potentially getting sold, Page decided to test free agency.
“I want to see where my value is at,” Page told The MMA Hour recently. “I want to see my worth. It doesn’t mean the journey has stopped here. It just means I’m having another look.”
While Page could very well end up with the UFC, it's interesting to note that Bellator does have a matching clause should he remain an MMA competitor.
The 36-year-old could also opt to box both in the traditional format and in bare knuckle. He notably made his bare knuckle boxing debut in a losing effort against Mike Perry last August.
Whatever choice he makes, Page should ideally look for the most lucrative option given that he's approaching the end of his career.
