The build-up to Ian Garry and Michael ‘Venom’ Page’s clash at UFC 303 has seen shots being thrown from both sides! Former ‘Bellator’ star, Page, made his UFC debut against Kevin Holland at UFC 299 in March and started his run in the promotion with a unanimous decision victory over Holland. Now, he’s set to face off against the no. 7 ranked rising star in the welterweight division, Ian Garry and the two have been busy firing salvos at one another during their interviews ahead of their June 29 clash.

During the UFC 303 media day, Page targeted Garry by stating, “With you, people hate you, and I think it’s because we can all feel when something is not real, when it’s not authentic.  I feel it’s not authentic with Garry therefore he’s fake Conor McGregor.” Garry had previously confessed that it was the Irish MMA icon who inspired him to begin his journey into the world of combat sports. As such, Page further went on to claim that Garry trying to play “the exact same role” as McGregor is why the fans perceive him as not being authentic to himself.

Meanwhile, Garry didn’t stay silent as he fired back by accusing Page of trying to ‘bribe’ members of his camp to gain an edge over the Irishman. Garry claimed, “Your little f**king rat jiu-jitsu coach, offered money to one of my Brazilian friends, and you got nothing…” and even alleged that Page and his coach would be “suspended for life” for their actions. 

However, it appears that the ‘beef’ wasn’t anything serious as a recent video shared by ESPN MMA highlighted Page meeting Garry’s son after the press conference and the wholesome interaction between the pair has left the MMA fandom scratching their heads. The fans took to the comment section to make their thoughts known on the surprising display of sportsmanship and here’s a look at what the community had to say.

Fans left puzzled at Michael Page’s wholesome interaction with Ian Garry’s son after heated back and forth

The wholesome interaction was appreciated by one fan who pointed out that while it is necessary for fighters to draw more attention to their clash, they can still maintain respect and camaraderie outside of that

I love ppl that know it’s a business and can still b cool behind the scenes

Others however were skeptical as they claimed that Ian Garry’s friendly interaction with Page might be a part of a psychological ploy but ‘Venom’ will still take care of business as usual once the cage door locks behind them

Ian tryna play mind games. MVP will still be MVP when the fight starts

A comparison to professional wrestling was also made as a fan highlighted the blurring lines between entertainment and competition in the UFC where conflicts can sometimes seem manufactured

At this point, UFC is basically WWE… No real beefs lol

Not all fans were pleased with the display as they demanded both men emulate Conor McGregor’s notorious trash-talking style that elevates the drama surrounding his fights

Bro we don’t wanna see that, go Mcgregor mode

Some members of the fandom were more vocal about their displeasure with the fighters interacting in a friendly manner after they were busy firing shots at one other at the press conference

Hate when they do this friendly sht after sht talking each other like pick a side smh

However, even in a sport known for its aggression, one fan brought up the fact that fighters can act as role models when children are around to demonstrate the importance of positive behavior

They can still have beef but show up as role models in front of their kids.

In conclusion, fans have come out with different takes on the interaction between Ian Garry and Michael Page with some appreciating their display of professionalism while others felt as if the friendliness diminishes the authenticity of their rivalry. Nevertheless, the wholesome moment serves as a reminder that in MMA, respect and rivalry can co-exist! Do you think Michael ‘Venom’ Page can end Ian Garry’s undefeated streak? Let us know in the comments below!