Welterweights
#7 WW | Ian Garry (14-0, 7-0 UFC) vs. #14 WW | Michael Page (22-2, 1-0 UFC)ODDS: Garry (-135), Page (+114)
Advertisement
Page will probably settle in as a fascinating curio, but for the time being, the UFC is fully in the business of seeing if the former Bellator standout can quickly become a title contender. Page’s matchmaking in Bellator was the subject of derision for years. A flashy and dynamic striker with little else to back that up from a mixed martial arts standpoint, Page consistently got a soft touch that allowed him to keep adding to his highlight reel. When the promotion finally pulled the trigger on Page as a contender, he proved worthy of hanging at that level. His fights could be messy and a split decision loss to Logan Storley saw him get controlled, but the whole package was viable enough that he was a credible fighter heading into free agency. His UFC debut against Kevin Holland in March saw him win the expectedly bizarre mess that ensued, and this could be another style clash. It’s easy to see Garry staying at range if his tentativeness against Neal is any sort of indication, and Page will be just as content to wait out his opportunities. Page landing a knockout blow wouldn’t be a shock, but the safer bet seems to be Garry’s strategizing and adaptability cracking open the challenge that “Venom” presents, even if he’ll likely have to take the fight out of the fight to do so. The pick is Garry via decision.
Jump To »
Pereira vs. Prochazka
Lopes vs. Ortega
Dolidze vs. Smith
Bueno Silva vs. Chiasson
Garry vs. Page
The Prelims
« Previous Video: UFC 303 ‘Embedded’ Episode 3
Next Say What? Payton Talbott Articulates Blueprint for Opponent to Win at UFC 303 »
More