Shara Magomedov's coach admits Michael 'Venom' Page matchup is difficult, breaks down potential paths to victory
Shara Magomedov's coach understands the challenge Michael 'Venom' Page would present to his pupil in their upcoming clash. Gor Azizyan admired Page's distinctive and unpredictable fighting style. The Brit's karate-style stance and unconventional strikes make him a formidable opponent.
In a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, Magomedov's coach stated:
“I think it’s going to be a great fight because he is also quite a unique fighter. Awkward style, throwing weird strikes, like a Karate approach to striking… I think style-wise he is not an easy opponent for Sharabutdin… Look at the way he moves, nobody fights like that.”
Despite this, Azizyan remains confident in his fighter’s abilities, emphasizing that the pressure Magomedov applies will be a key factor in the potential fight:
“He doesn’t like to get low-kicked as I can see…Against Page, it’s going to be 70/30 in favor of kicks…The point is, he never faced the pressure Shara brings and it’s that pressure that may force him to do things.”
Watch Shara Magomedov's coach discuss a potential Michael 'Venom' Page vs. Shara Magomedov matchup:
Michael ‘Venom’ Page weighs in on upcoming fight with Shara Magomedov
Michael 'Venom' Page believes a fight with Shara Magomedov would be a different challenge than his previous two UFC appearances. Page has frequently encountered opponents who prefer a grappling-heavy approach. However, he expects a more striking-based encounter with Magomedov.
Despite Magomedov's grappling abilities, Page is not overly concerned. In another interview with Red Corner MMA, Page emphasized that he looks forward to a striking match, saying:
“For me, the amount of times people have spoken about how they’re gonna knock me out, the better striker, and the same thing happens over and over again... The likes of Paul Daley, Ian Garry, so many people that want to grab me because it’s just different when I’m in front of you."
He further added:
“At the same time, I honestly believe he’s going to be very confident in his ability to strike. He doesn’t seem amazing on the floor, I’m sure he’s capable…but I agree it’s going to be fireworks up until the fight, and then maybe he might make a few different decisions. But if he doesn’t, perfect, let’s make it a stand-up fight!” [H/t: Bloody Elbow]
Check out Michael 'Venom' Page's interview below: