Jared Cannonier has openly conveyed his dissatisfaction with being paired against Michael ‘Venom’ Page for his upcoming middleweight fight at UFC 319, scheduled for August 16 at the United Center in Chicago. This fight has sparked discussion due to Cannonier’s aspirations and Page’s different division ranking.

Cannonier’s Disappointment with Matchmaking at UFC 319

At 41 years old and ranked eighth in the middleweight division, Jared Cannonier recently secured an impressive TKO victory over Gregory Rodrigues. In contrast, Michael Page remains unranked in the middleweight category but holds the No. 15 position in the welterweight division. His latest performance was a unanimous decision win against Shara Magomedov. As Cannonier seeks a final push toward a middleweight title shot, he expressed doubts about whether fighting Page serves that goal.

Speaking with Submission Radio, Cannonier detailed his frustration with the matchmaking decision. While understanding the commercial appeal of the bout, he questioned its logic for someone aiming for a championship opportunity. He stressed that his issues were not personal, respecting Page’s skills, but wishing for an opponent closer to his ranking.

The issues that I had with the fight is that [Page] is really not a middleweight,

Cannonier stated.

Me, I’m focused on getting back to the title. I understand it’s a big fight, it’s on a big card, so there is some weight there…The fight is happening, so get ready.

It’s business as usual. [Page] may be unranked, but I don’t know. I can’t really make any reasoning behind the matchmaking,

he added.

Respect for Michael ‘Venom’ Page’s Fighting Ability

Despite his concerns, Cannonier acknowledged Michael Page’s reputation within the combat sports world. Page gained prominence fighting in Bellator and is recognized as one of the top talents outside of the UFC. Inside the Octagon, Page holds a 2-1 record, with his only defeat being a close split decision against Ian Machado Garry.

Cannonier praised Page’s entertaining style and his ability to attract fans, emphasizing that a convincing performance would help him regain momentum.

I’ve watched ‘MVP’ for a long time,

Cannonier said during his Submission Radio interview.

He’s a world renowned fighter, we all know who he is. We all love to watch him fight and stuff like that. It’s still a big fight and with any fight, a dominant finish will get me back on track.

Preparing for Page’s Unorthodox Style and Movement

Michael Page is well known for his unpredictable striking and elusive footwork, characteristics that have led to several highlight-reel knockouts. His improved takedown defense further complicates the challenge he poses. Cannonier is aware of these factors and plans to maintain focus to prevent Page from dictating the fight’s pace.

Cannonier outlined his approach ahead of UFC 319, emphasizing pressure and capitalizing on any opponent mistakes. He expressed confidence in relying on his own skills rather than overanalyzing Page’s style.

I put pressure on, I engage in the fight, and I try to capitalize off of mistakes or any openings I might find in my opponent,

Cannonier explained.

I’m not going in there to try to solve no ‘MVP’ puzzle, I’m going in there trying to perform to the best of my ability.

This fight carries significance for Cannonier as he hopes that a decisive victory will reaffirm his place near the top of the middleweight division and put him back on track for title contention. While the matchup may diverge from the typical path to a championship shot, UFC 319 presents a high-profile platform offering exposure and a chance to showcase his skills ahead of another potential title run.