Michael ‘Venom’ Page fended off the takedowns of Paul Daley to earn a unanimous decision victory in the biggest ever MMA fight involving two Brits.
Page retained his unbeaten record (14-0) against his bitter rival at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, to progress in Bellator’s Welterweight World Grand Prix tournament.
“He didn’t come to fight,” Page criticised after three judges each gave him a 48-47 score. “He was bragging about being a knockout artist and tried more takedowns than he’s ever tried in his career.
“The one and only MVP is here to stay, and to take that belt.”
Boom goes the dynamite! #Bellator216 pic.twitter.com/oJLLS88CH4
After a cagey opening round, Page opened up with the first of his trademark innovative kicks – but Daley replied by uncharacteristically taking the fight to the floor.
Page stung his opponent with a big right hand in the third round but, again, Daley dragged him to the ground where he landed some notable offence for the first time.
#Bellator216 pic.twitter.com/LfwICuDrgo
Page had never fought beyond 15 minutes (Daley had only once in 58 previous fights). Daley was again successful with a takedown but Page caught the eye with a flying knee.
As the clocked ticked in the final round Daley’s latest takedown was reversed by Page, who failed to lock in a rear naked choke but ended the fight in a dominant position.
It was the most significant result of Page’s career and he will next fight Douglas Lima in the semi-final of the World Grand Prix.
“It will be an absolute honour to share the cage with some I respect,” Page said.
“Expect fireworks,” Lima replied.
Sky Sports will be the only place in the UK and Ireland to watch the US, London and Dublin shows of the Bellator MMA 2019 tour.
Sky Sports fight dates announced:
- Bellator 217: Gallagher vs. Graham – Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019 – 3Arena – Dublin
- Bellator 218: Sanchez vs. Grimshaw – Friday, March 22 – WinStar World Casino & Resort – Thackerville, OK, USA
- Bellator 219: Koreshkov vs. Larkin – Friday, March 29 – Pechanga Resort Casino – Temecula, CA, USA
- Bellator 220: MacDonald vs. Fitch – Saturday, April 27 – SAP Center – San Jose, CA, USA
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