Michael Page Sets the Record Straight: Middleweight Move at UFC Saudi Arabia Is Just Temporary

Michael Page Clarifies UFC Saudi Arabia Middleweight Move, Eyes Welterweight Return

Michael Page has made it clear that his upcoming bout at UFC Fight Night 250 in Saudi Arabia will be a one-time detour into the middleweight division. The former Bellator star, known for his flashy striking, is set to face undefeated Shara Magomedov on February 1st at ANB Arena in Riyadh.

Despite the excitement surrounding his 185-pound debut, Page (22-3 MMA, 1-1 UFC) insists his primary focus remains at welterweight, where he believes there's unfinished business. “For me, it’s back to work at welterweight,” Page told MMA Junkie. “I still have a lot to accomplish in the division, and I feel comfortable making the weight cut.”

Page’s move to middleweight came after Magomedov's callout of former champion Israel Adesanya. Seizing the opportunity, Page proposed a matchup, which the UFC swiftly arranged. However, he reassures fans that his stay in the division is temporary. “If the right opportunity at middleweight presents itself, I’m open, but my goals are still at 170,” he added.

Among the matchups Page is eyeing at welterweight, a potential clash with reigning champion Leon Edwards remains high on his list. “A fight with Leon in the U.K. would be massive,” Page stated. “I wouldn’t take that fight anywhere else. It’s something that needs to happen on home soil.”

As the welterweight division experiences a shift with Colby Covington’s recent defeat and rising contenders emerging, Page is eager to establish himself among the elite. “The division is evolving, and I want to be in the mix,” Page emphasized.

Before any return to 170 pounds, Page must first handle business against Magomedov (15-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC), an unbeaten powerhouse with a reputation for striking excellence.

Stay tuned to see how Michael Page fares in his middleweight venture before setting his sights back on the welterweight title picture.