Ian Garry vows to "dog walk" Michael 'Venom' Page at UFC 303 after imitation display, Englishman issues response
The verbal sparring between Ian Garry and Michael Page is escalating as they prepare for their crucial welterweight bout at UFC 303 this weekend. After pushing for a matchup with former champion Colby Covington during International Fight Week, 'The Future' redirected his efforts and ensured his spot on the June 29 card by agreeing to face Page instead.
Garry has emerged as one of the most promising prospects in the 170-pound roster, demonstrating his potential with commanding wins over Daniel Rodriguez and Neil Magny last year. While his split-decision victory against Geoff Neal at UFC 298 sparked debate, the Irishman remains determined to establish himself among the UFC's top draws.
Meanwhile, Page is celebrated as one of MMA's most dynamic strikers and has a wealth of accomplishments outside of the octagon. However, Garry recently expressed his disinterest in fighting the Englishman, preferring instead to face a higher-ranked opponent who could propel him closer to a title shot.
During a recent ESPN MMA promotional video, both Garry and Page were challenged to imitate each other's fighting styles. 'The Future' went first, attempting to mimic his upcoming opponent's unorthodox jumping stance. He said:
"That's it, he only has a right hand... I'm gonna dog walk him. Put a f**king leash on him and walk him around that cage."
Meanwhile, 'Venom' laughed it off and declined to impersonate Garry's style, stating:
"No... It's not worth stressing up my body."
Check out Ian Garry and Michael Page's comments below:
Page spent the majority of his combat sports career in Bellator MMA before making his promotional debut at UFC 299 in March, where he earned a decisive unanimous decision victory over Kevin Holland.
Michael 'Venom' Page advises Ian Garry to “focus on himself” after Conor McGregor’s UFC 303 withdrawal
Initially set to make his return at UFC 303, Conor McGregor's comeback fight coincided with Ian Garry's determination to compete on the same card as his childhood hero.
However, McGregor's plans were derailed when he had to withdraw from his UFC 303 bout against Michael Chandler due to a toe injury suffered during training camp.
During a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Michael Page reflected on the unexpected twist of facing Garry on June 29, particularly in light of McGregor's withdrawal from the same card:
"I just find it a bit funny, just how things work out. I think he was a bit too stressed about riding on the coat-tails of Conor. So now that this has happened, hopefully he learns that these things can happen and he should just focus on himself. Either way, I'm just glad that our fight is still on."
Check out Michael Page's comments on Ian Garry below (0:20):