Michael Page Calls UFC Departure 'Disrespectful' Following 5-1 Run

Michael Page (26-3) has expressed disappointment with his departure from the UFC after completing the final fight of his contract at UFC Paris. Following a lackluster unanimous decision victory over Nursulton Ruziboev, the welterweight veteran was denied a post-fight Octagon interview, removed from the official rankings, and UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that his contract would not be renewed.

Speaking with Ariel Helwani, Page argued that his 5-1 promotional record and active four-fight win streak should have earned him an opportunity to sit at the negotiating table rather than facing an immediate exit. "I had goals to achieve and regardless of anything, I was winning my fights, which says to me you get to stay," Page said. "That's the premise of this game, is success should breed more opportunities...

But I wouldn't have expected it to be dealt with in the way that it was dealt with. I found that quite disrespectful, to be fair."

Page joined the UFC in 2023 after leaving Bellator MMA following its takeover by the Professional Fighters League. While famous for highlight-reel knockouts earlier in his career, Page faced backlash in the UFC for point-fighting from a distance and failing to secure a single finish. Page also expressed frustration that he was barred from speaking to the Paris crowd—marking the second time he was denied a post-fight interview—noting that the promotion could have allowed him to address the fans if they already knew they would not re-sign him.