{
  "id": 6240929,
  "title": "Michael “Venom” Page’s UFC Future Takes Major Hit After Rankings Snub",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/michael-venom-pages-ufc-future-takes-major-hit-after-rankings-snub",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-08T05:26:47.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/michael-venom-page-ufc-future-052647306.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Michael “Venom” Page’s UFC future now faces a significant setback after being removed from rankings eligibility following his disappointing UFC Paris performance. Despite signing with the UFC in December 2023, Page has struggled to make an impact, going 5-1 in six appearances with no finishes in the octagon. His final bout at UFC Paris resulted in a boring decision win over Nursulton Ruziboev. Earlier in the year, Page faced lackluster opposition in his fight against Sam Patterson, further fueling doubts about his potential. The removal from rankings eligibility suggests the UFC may be looking to move on. MMA reporter John Morgan confirmed the change via email, stating that Page is currently a free agent. While Page can still return to the UFC with a new deal, his lack of optimism following the Paris victory hints at potential trouble ahead. With options like MVP MMA or the PFL on the table, Page may find an alternative path. However, former middleweight contender Derek Brunson has already thrown his name into the ring, calling out Page for a potential PFL bout. This development could provide an interesting option for the 26-3 striker if he decides to pursue a new career chapter.",
  "summary": "After his dull decision win against Nursulton Ruziboev at UFC Paris, Michael \"Venom\" Page has reportedly been released from the promotion.",
  "key_points": [
    "Michael \"Venom\" Page removed from UFC rankings eligibility.",
    "Page's UFC Paris performance marked by lackluster win.",
    "Potential new career paths explored, including PFL."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Being removed from rankings eligibility suggests the UFC is losing confidence in Michael \"Venom\" Page, potentially paving the way for him to explore alternative opportunities in the MMA landscape.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}