Ian Garry and Michael Page have been engaged in a rollercoaster of respect levels during the lead-up to their UFC 303 bout. Initially complimentary, things took a trash talk-oriented turn at Wednesday’s media day. However, it was Thursday’s pre-fight news conference that escalated matters significantly.
Garry (14-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) accused Page (22-2 MMA, 1-0 UFC) of attempting to acquire training information in exchange for money. According to Garry, Page and his team offered thousands of dollars to get information from Chute Boxe, Garry’s camp. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t infiltrate the tight-knit Chute Boxe family.
Ian Garry’s unexpected accusation on Michael Page
Garry boldly stated, “Did you and your team offer thousands of dollars to get information in Chute Boxe from my boys?” Garry said. Ian Garry continued “Did you send someone a message and offer thousands for information. And you couldn’t infiltrate the camp. You couldn’t get into it. The Chute Boxe family is too tight. Your little rat jiu-jitsu coach offered money to one of my Brazilian friends and you got nothing. Saturday night, you’re f*cked.”
"Shut the f— up!"
Michael "Venom" Page responds to Ian Machado Garry's bribery accusations towards MVP's team. #UFC303 pic.twitter.com/bshXgtuQOf
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) June 28, 2024
“All I know is you’re suspended after this fight,” Ian Garry said. “You’re never fighting again after this fight. You and your jiu-jitsu coach are getting suspended for life.”
Page didn’t deny the allegations but responded with a curt “Shut the f*ck up.” The Nevada Athletic Commission (NAC) statutes don’t specifically address training camp spying, leaving the nature of the suspension unclear. A backstage video showed a different demeanor between the fighters, as they shared a pleasant moment with Garry’s young son.
Ian Machado Garry's son met Michael "Venom" Page after the presser 🤝 #UFC303 pic.twitter.com/JHnyK1U81r
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) June 27, 2024
Regardless of the outcome, this controversy has added fuel to the fire ahead of their welterweight clash at UFC 303. Stay tuned for more updates on this heated rivalry.