Michael 'Venom' Page emphasizes the urgent need for MMA fighters to unite and form a union to secure better pay in the sport. The 39-year-old, who recently signed a deal with Misfits Boxing after leaving the UFC, expressed his concerns about the disparity in earnings between MMA fighters and athletes from other sports.

Page, known as MVP, highlighted that he won five of his six bouts in the UFC but found the compensation inadequate. After transitioning to Misfits, he assures that he will earn significantly more than he did in the UFC and aims to leverage his platform to empower fellow fighters.

He pointed to the Muhammad Ali Act, a law designed to protect boxers' rights, as a model for what he envisions for MMA. Page stated:

"It's less about speaking out now, it's more about forming a union and coming together. We have to move as one."

He argued that if all fighters collectively decided not to participate, the UFC would cease to exist, stressing the importance of fighters recognizing their role in the organization's success.

Concerns about fighter pay have been magnified this year, especially after boxer Conor Benn reportedly signed an £11m one-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing, owned by UFC president Dana White. Critics have questioned why similar pay isn’t extended to MMA fighters.

White has defended his position, citing the UFC's £5.7bn broadcast deal with Paramount. Page acknowledged that fear of repercussions often silences fighters from voicing their concerns. He remarked,

"Most people are not willing to say anything because it will affect them."

Excited about boxing with Misfits, Page envisions discussions about incorporating MMA into their promotions, aiming to create better financial conditions for future fighters. He concluded,

"I see people in the UFC still struggling... I definitely want better for fighters."