UFC welterweight star Michael “MVP” Page is growing increasingly frustrated with the matchmaking process, publicly stating his difficulty in securing a fight. In a candid interview on the Shxts ‘n’ Gigs podcast, the British striker detailed his unsuccessful attempts to get booked, revealing he finds himself in a state of limbo while calling for action in the competitive 170-pound division.
You can watch the full interview segment where Page discusses his booking frustrations here on YouTube. In the discussion, he stated, “I’ve been trying to get a fight for months now,” highlighting a common but pressing issue for fighters trying to maintain momentum in the crowded UFC welterweight roster.
The Root of the Frustration: A Division in Motion
Page’s primary goal, as explained on the podcast, is a return to the welterweight division, where he believes he is on the cusp of a title shot. “I’m one or two fights away from the title,” he asserted, emphasising that inactivity is the biggest obstacle to his championship aspirations. He expressed willingness to fight in London or on any card, but claims the responses from the promotion have consistently been that suitable opponents are simply not available.
This follows a period where Page stepped up on short notice to fight at middleweight, a move he hoped would showcase his flexibility. However, returning to his natural weight class has proven unexpectedly difficult, with the top of the division tied up in other scheduled bouts.
Potential Opponents and the Matchmaking Dilemma
The UFC welterweight division is one of the deepest in the sport, but that depth can create logjams. While names like Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson—a fighter with a similarly flashy striking style—are often suggested by fans, such dream matches are complicated by rankings, timing, and promotional strategy.
Page’s situation, as laid out in his Shxts ‘n’ Gigs appearance, underscores the challenge for the UFC matchmakers: balancing a fighter’s desire to stay active with the strategic booking of ranked bouts. For an entertainer like Page, the business incentive to keep him on a regular fight schedule is high, making the current impasse all the more puzzling.
The Impact of Inactivity on Career Trajectory
For any fighter, especially one in his late 30s, prolonged inactivity is detrimental. It stalls ranking progress, allows others to leapfrog in contention, and disrupts the sharpness that only regular competition provides. Page’s unique, confidence-based striking style particularly thrives on rhythm and activity.
His public airing of these frustrations on a popular podcast is a tactical move, aimed at applying pressure to the promotion and calling out potential rivals. It is a direct plea for the fight booking process to find a solution for one of the roster’s most exciting talents.
What’s Next for MVP?
The ball is now in the UFC’s court. The promotion must either find a willing, ranked welterweight opponent for Page in the coming months or risk leaving a major drawing card on the shelf during his competitive prime.
Fans of Michael Page will be hoping his candid comments spur the matchmaking team into action, leading to an announcement for a high-profile bout in early 2026. Until then, “MVP” remains a fighter in waiting, eager to unleash his dynamic skills and resume his charge toward UFC gold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Michael Page discuss his fight booking issues?
Page detailed his frustrations in an interview on the Shxts ‘n’ Gigs podcast. A clip from the discussion is available on YouTube.
Why can’t Michael Page get a UFC fight booked?
According to his podcast comments, the primary issue is a lack of available opponents in the welterweight division. He states the promotion has told him that suitable fighters are not available to match up with him.
What weight class does Michael Page want to fight in?
Page is adamant about returning to the UFC welterweight division (170 lbs). He accepted a short-notice fight at middleweight previously but views welterweight as his path to a title shot.
How close does Page believe he is to a UFC title shot?
Michael Page has stated he believes he is only “one or two fights away” from a shot at the UFC Welterweight Championship.
What did Page say about fighting in London?
Page expressed a strong desire to fight on a potential UFC London card in 2026, but indicated that the matchmaking team has not been able to secure a willing opponent for him for that event.
