Michael ‘Venom’ Page Excited for Big Names and Title Fights After ‘Being Paid What I Deserve’
Michael ‘Venom’ Page is ready to shake up the Bellator welterweight division.
After more than a year away from the sport due to injuries and pursuing a new career in boxing, Page is finally read to return on Friday night when he faces David Rickels in a featured bout at Bellator 200 from London.
Page has long been considered one of the most exciting prospects in the entire sport of mixed martial arts, although there has been criticism that perhaps he’s not facing the top level talent that would challenge him.
With a perfect 12-0 record including seven wins in Bellator, it would seem time for Page to begin his march towards title contention, especially if he gets past Rickels on Friday night.
In fact, Page agrees with that assessment but first things first, he wants to get a new contract from Bellator that pays him what he believes he deserves.
“I’ve got a few more [fights] left and we’re going to be negotiating with Bellator. Even after this fight maybe, negotiating with Bellator, pushing forward,” Page said ahead of his fight on Friday. “This is a division I’d love to be on top of and Bellator’s been my home for a long time and Bellator is where I want to be at. I’m just looking to work hard but working hard sometimes, a lot of stuff can get in the way and having that kind of financial support to just focus on your craft helps.
“I feel like if I can get paid what I deserve to get paid in Bellator, it’s going to push forward to help me to get to the top of the division.”
In addition to that statement, Page is also humble enough to admit that he’s still developing as a fighter to ensure that other parts of his game are as strong as his striking.
On the feet, Page is arguably one of the most dangerous fighters in the world but his opponents aren’t going to just stand and strike to make him comfortable.
That being said, Page knows he’s evolving everyday and he hopes to continue that trend after earning a new contract that will allow him the financial freedom to pursue his long term goals of becoming Bellator champion.
“I’m comfortable anywhere. I feel like my stand up is a hell of a lot better than anybody’s but there’s still a hell of a lot I have to learn. In terms of my stand up, I had to show people what it was and didn’t understand it,” Page said.
“I’m just looking forward for me at the moment being paid what I deserve and getting on a good contract and then we’ll move forward to fight these big names.”
