Michael Venom' Page has called on mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters to form a union and act collectively to secure better pay, improved working conditions and greater financial security. After leaving the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and signing with Misfits Boxing, Page argues that fighters must recognise their collective bargaining power and challenge the sport's existing financial structure.

Page, who won five of his six UFC bouts after joining the promotion in 2024, has criticised the disparity between MMA fighters' earnings and the incomes of elite athletes in other sports. He cites his own move to Misfits Boxing, where he expects to earn considerably more, as evidence that alternative promotions can offer better financial opportunities. However, he believes individual contracts and public criticism alone cannot bring about lasting change. Instead, fighters must unite, recognising that the UFC depends on their participation and could not operate without them.

As a possible model for reform, Page points to the Muhammad Ali Act, a 2000 US law intended to protect professional boxers' rights and address potential conflicts of interest and monopolistic practices. He argues that MMA should adopt similar protections to improve fighters' bargaining power and financial treatment. The debate has gained momentum following reports that boxer Conor Benn secured an £11 million deal for a single fight with Zuffa Boxing, a promotion owned by UFC president Dana White. Critics have questioned why comparable earnings are not available to UFC fighters, while White has defended the promotion's pay structure, citing its £5.7 billion broadcasting agreement with Paramount.

Page acknowledges that collective action is difficult because fighters may fear losing opportunities or facing repercussions if they speak out. Although criticism of fighter pay is widespread, many athletes remain silent because they have financial responsibilities and careers to protect. Page does not blame those who remain quiet; rather, he argues that meaningful change is unlikely unless fighters act together. Without solidarity, individual protest leaves athletes vulnerable to exclusion or disadvantage.

Beyond higher wages, Page's broader objective is to create a more competitive MMA industry in which fighters have access to alternative promotions. He argues that greater competition would give athletes more options and strengthen their negotiating position. He is particularly concerned that some fighters who reach the sport's highest level still face financial difficulties. His ambition is to ensure that younger generations are adequately paid, supported and treated fairly.

Despite his criticism of UFC fighter compensation, Page says he largely enjoyed his time with the promotion, praising its staff, training facilities, and fans. Nevertheless, he reflects on the sport's changing priorities, suggesting that audiences increasingly reward fighters who engage in physically punishing contests rather than those who demonstrate technical skill alone. He acknowledges he might have adapted his performances if he had recognised this shift earlier.

Page intends to make his Misfits debut in early next year, although the rules and opponent remain undecided. Ultimately, his transition to another promotion represents more than a personal financial move: it provides a platform to advocate collective organisation, stronger protections, and greater competition. His central argument is that sustainable improvements in MMA fighter pay will depend not simply on individual success or outspoken criticism, but on fighters uniting to demand structural change.

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