White Reveals Why UFC Released Michael Page

Dana White says UFC matchmakers chose not to re-sign Michael Page after the British striker completed his contract with a decision win over Nursulton Ruziboev at UFC Paris.

Page went 5-1 across six UFC appearances, finishing his tenure on a four-fight winning streak. His lone loss came against Ian Machado Garry as he bounced between welterweight and middleweight. Still, the promotion let him walk, per BJPenn.com.

Matchmakers Wanted More Action From Page

White told media that the decision rested with UFC matchmakers, who wanted more entertainment value. "At the end of the day, matchmakers make the decision on who stays and who goes. They didn't want to re-sign him," White said, according to the report.

None of Page's UFC bouts ended early. All six went the distance, a sharp contrast to the highlight-reel knockouts he delivered in Bellator that built his reputation before joining the promotion.

After the Ruziboev fight, Page told UFC News he wanted another shot. "I sit down with the UFC, have a honest conversation," he said. "I'm going to say, 'Look, man, I know I could do better. I'm aspiring to do better. I'm up there. Give me better opponents and have faith that I can go deliver something special for the crowd.'"

Page, now 26-3 as a pro, enters free agency with options. PFL, BKFC, and Scott Coker's new promotion could all show interest in the former Bellator standout.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Dana White reveals why UFC won’t re-sign Michael Page after 5-1 tenure