Images: Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports & Bellator MMA

Michael Chandler Backs Kevin Holland To Get The Better Of Ex-Bellator Colleague Michael Page's 'Annoying' Style

Originally posted on MMA News | By Harvey Leonard | Last updated 12/28/23

Among a number of intriguing storylines to look forward to in 2024 is the UFC debut of striking specialist Michael "Venom" Page.

After a decade competing under the Bellator banner, during which he won 18 of his 20 fights and challenged for gold unsuccessfully on one occasion, Page made the decision to test free agency this past summer.

And after appearances at UFC events in London and Abu Dhabi increased speculation of his arrival in the Octagon, MVP had his signing and debut fight confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White earlier this month.

The British knockout artist will make the walk on MMA's biggest stage for the first time at UFC 299 in Miami next March, where ranked welterweight contender Kevin Holland will await him.

Ahead of his UFC journey getting underway, Page has outlined his plans to replicate the fast rise of fellow former Bellator fighter Michael Chandler. But "Iron" himself doesn't see that coming to fruition...

Chandler Doesn't Expect Page To Find Success In UFC

During a recent appearance on Steve-O's Wild Ride! podcast, Chandler reacted to the news of Page joining him in swapping the Bellator cage for the UFC Octagon.

Like "Venom," Chandler made the move as a veteran of the sport after a lengthy period in the rival organization. He was quick to make a splash, knocking out Dan Hooker in quick time to secure a rapid chance at championship status.

But the former three-time Bellator champion isn't expecting Page to follow suit. In fact, Chandler is predicting him to fall at the very first hurdle.

"I think Kevin Holland is a horrible matchup for him. I think Kevin Holland probably beats him. But I like MVP as a person. I think he’s a cool dude," Chandler said. "Michael 'Venom' Page, I’ve got mixed feelings about him. I don’t like his style, I think it’s annoying. He just kind of moves around like that drunken warrior karate style.

"But he’s got some ridiculous knockouts. When I say ridiculous knockouts, the dude’s got some ridiculous spinning kicks and back elbows," Chandler continued. "He’s broken people’s faces... He’s a highlight reel kind of guy."

Page concluded his Bellator tenure by brutally stopping Goiti Yamauchi with a leg kick this past March. The result marked a rebound performance 10 months on from his failed interim title bid on home soil against Logan Storley.

The Londoner will now look to add to his lengthy compilation of impressive, flashy finishes on the UFC stage, starting against "Trailblazer" on March 9.