Following his successful promotional debut at UFC 299 in March, Michael ‘Venom’ Page (MVP) has been contemplating his next opponent. The 37-year-old welterweight, known for his flashy fighting style and showmanship, wasted no time in entering the 170lb rankings after defeating Kevin Holland. Now, as fans eagerly anticipate his next fight, MVP has set his sights on a familiar name: Colby Covington.
MVP’s options for his next UFC outing are somewhat limited within the top 10 of the division. While the fanbase has long dreamed of a matchup between MVP and Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson, the Londoner himself believes it wouldn’t be as exciting as anticipated. Instead, UFC commentator Michael Bisping suggests that a fight with rising star Ian Garry makes the most sense for MVP. However, there’s another name that MVP can’t seem to shake off: Colby Covington.
Michael Page’s Disdain for Colby Covington
In an interview with the UFC, MVP didn’t mince words when expressing his feelings toward Covington. “I hate this guy,” he admitted. “He doesn’t seem like a nice guy. All the stuff that came out last time about what fighters should and shouldn’t be allowed to talk about with regards to fighters going deep now, talking about each other’s wives and moms and dads.” MVP was referring to the UFC 296 press conference when Covington made a controversial comment about Leon Edwards’ late father, sparking a heated exchange.
After Ian Garry, Michael 'Venom' Page issues a callout to Colby Covington 👀#UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/pepsfpRcm4
— Sportskeeda MMA (@sportskeedaMMA) April 30, 2024
Colby Covington, known for his brash persona and trash-talking, has been going back and forth with fellow welterweight contender Ian Garry. The idea of a title eliminator fight between Covington and Garry seemed promising, but it appears to have hit a roadblock. Garry claims that Covington isn’t interested due to a foot injury sustained in his loss to Leon Edwards. However, MVP remains undeterred. He would “100%” fight Covington if given the opportunity, eager to settle the score inside the cage.
While Covington’s focus may be elsewhere, MVP’s callout adds fuel to the fire. The clash of personalities, both inside and outside the Octagon, promises fireworks. Whether it’s Covington’s relentless pressure and wrestling or MVP’s unorthodox striking and flair, fight fans would undoubtedly tune in to witness this grudge match.