Top Prospects in Focus: Will Jared Cannonier Upset Michael ‘Venom’ Page?
By Ali Hammad August 12, 2025 10:12
On August 16, 2025, UFC 319 will feature a captivating middleweight showdown between Jared Cannonier and Michael “Venom” Page, two seasoned fighters with contrasting styles and compelling motivations. As the bout unfolds at the United Center in Chicago, the question on many fans’ minds is whether Cannonier can upset Page and establish himself further among the division’s elite.
Jared Cannonier, 41, brings a wealth of experience and power to the cage. Known for his heavy hands and strategic approach, Cannonier has fought some of the division’s biggest names—including former champions Robert Whittaker, Sean Strickland, and Israel Adesanya—further testifying to his toughness and competitive pedigree. His recent comeback knockout win against Gregory Rodrigues snapped a two-fight losing streak and demonstrated that the veteran still possesses the resilience and drive to compete at a high level. Cannonier’s strength, honed over years competing at heavyweight and light heavyweight before settling at middleweight, remains a key element of his game plan.
On the other hand, Michael “Venom” Page, the 38-year-old British striker and kickboxing specialist, is known for his lightning-fast movement, elusive defense, and dynamic striking arsenal. After transitioning to the UFC middleweight division, Page has quickly made a name for himself by outpointing formidable opponents such as Shara Magomedov, showcasing slick combinations and superior speed. Page has expressed confidence that his quickness and technical striking will pose significant challenges for Cannonier, who, despite his power, struggles to keep pace with faster fighters. Page predicts that speed will be the decisive factor in this contest, noting that Cannonier struggles against quick and accurate strikers who can exploit openings with sharp jabs and counter-strikes.
Both fighters enter the bout highly motivated. Cannonier is still "in the final stretch" of his career and desires a title shot, as he stated in recent interviews. Despite his age and prior setbacks, he remains hungry to make his mark and extend his UFC legacy. Page views this fight as an opportunity to continue proving himself, taking on all challengers with a mindset focused on making big impacts in a competitive middleweight landscape. He has expressed frustration with the welterweight division’s politics and stepped up in middleweight to pursue the most compelling fights.
Tactically, Cannonier is expected to lean on his wrestling and power to control exchanges, working to neutralize Page’s speed advantage. He has the physicality to impose his will in clinch scenarios and try to grind out victories where striking flair is less prominent. Meanwhile, Page’s success will hinge on maintaining distance, using quick footwork and angles to frustrate Cannonier’s offense and land precise, damaging strikes. The battle between Cannonier’s power and Page’s speed and timing defines one of MMA’s classic matchups.
While fans may debate the odds, insiders acknowledge that both men share a fierce determination and willingness to fight anyone. Cannonier was once displeased about facing Page, viewing him as an unranked opponent, but recognizes the fight’s significance if he prevails, potentially propelling him back into title contention. Page, meanwhile, embraces the challenge and believes a victory over Cannonier would enhance his already rising profile in the UFC middleweight division.
This matchup pits a seasoned knockout artist in Cannonier against a lightning-quick striker with unorthodox skills in Page. While Cannonier’s strength and experience could trouble Page, the latter’s speed and striking precision make him a formidable obstacle. The contest is poised to be a high-stakes, tactical battle that tests whether Cannonier can disrupt Page’s rhythm and claim a memorable upset or if Page’s dynamic style will see him maintain his ascendancy.
The UFC 319 showdown promises excitement and meaningful implications for both fighters’ careers and the middleweight division’s landscape.
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