Dana White has clarified that UFC matchmakers — not he himself — made the call not to offer Michael 'Venom' Page a new contract after his six-fight deal expired. Page went 5-1 inside the Octagon but reportedly sought assurances from the promotion over future matchups before agreeing to re-sign. White told MMA Fighting that the final say on roster decisions rests with the matchmakers, who ultimately chose to move on from the former Bellator star.
Dana White has revealed that UFC matchmakers, not the promotion's president himself, were behind the decision to let Michael "Venom" Page walk after his contract expired, telling MMA Fighting the roster call ultimately belonged to them.
Page, the 39-year-old English welterweight out of London Shootfighters, wrapped up a six-fight UFC tenure with a 5-1 record inside the Octagon. A former Bellator standout, the six-foot-three, switch-stance striker carries a career record of 26-3-0 and has long been regarded as one of the more visually distinct fighters in the division. His UFC run showcased his trademark precision — he lands 2.28 significant strikes per minute at a striking accuracy of 58 percent — though his ground game remained largely untested, with almost no submission attempts registered throughout his stint.
According to White's comments, Page had sought assurances from the promotion regarding future matchmaking before committing to a new deal. That request, combined with the matchmakers' own assessment of his roster fit, led to the parting of ways. White was clear in distancing himself personally from the decision, framing it as a straightforward call made by the people responsible for building the fight card.
Why it matters
- Page's departure removes a high-profile, fan-friendly welterweight from a 170-pound division already packed with contenders
- His 5-1 UFC record and striking pedigree likely make him an attractive target for rival promotions
- The episode highlights the degree of autonomy UFC matchmakers hold over roster construction, independent of White's direct involvement
- Page's reported desire for matchmaking assurances points to a broader tension between fighter agency and promotional control
