Michael Page just snagged another win in the octagon on Saturday, taking down Nursulton Ruziboev by unanimous decision at UFC Fight Night 287 in Paris. Don’t let that ‘W’ fool you though. “MVP” is *not* happy with how it went down, and he’s already got his sights set on one specific champion who he thinks will actually come to fight.
MVP’s Frustration Boils Over After Latest Decision
Page’s record now stands at an impressive 26-3 in MMA, 5-1 in the UFC, but for him, just winning isn’t cutting it. He was absolutely hoping for a finish against Ruziboev, but once again, his opponent didn’t fully engage. It’s a pattern that’s been dogging him through his last few fights, leaving him chasing that elusive knockout. He was left frustrated that Ruziboev didn’t bring the fire he craves, making his unanimous decision victory feel hollow.
Sean Strickland Is the Only Name on MVP’s Mind
So, who does Page think will actually stand and trade with him? None other than UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland. Page has been calling for this fight for a while now, and he’s doubling down on it. During the post-fight press conference, he was clear: “Again, Strickland. I’ve asked for that fight a couple of times. I think that’s a great fight because he’s mad enough to not care and just keep coming forward.” Page is confident he can handle Strickland’s aggression too, adding, “I still think eventually I put him in a box. I don’t think there’s any striker, anybody in the world, that can beat me striking with my style.” That’s a bold claim, but if anyone’s got the unique style to back it up, it’s MVP.
The Ruziboev fight was actually the last one on Page’s current UFC contract. He’s hoping to re-sign, but not just for more wins on his record. He wants to deliver a knockout, stating, “There’s more to just having a ‘W.’ There’s more to it, and that’s what I wanted. That’s what I was seeking.” He even pushed for the UFC to give him one more shot at that finish: “Sign me for one more fight. Let me just get that knockout and then you can kick me out.” The man is on a mission for fireworks, and he won’t be satisfied until he gets them.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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