JRE MMA Show #170 with Michael "Venom" Page

Overview

This episode features Michael Venom Page, a dynamic mixed martial artist known for his unorthodox fighting style and creative approach to combat sports. The conversation dives into MVP's journey in MMA, his unique fighting techniques, the mental and physical challenges of the sport, and his ventures outside the cage, including filmmaking and entrepreneurship.

Notable Quotes

- Power only means something if you land. My whole element is not being touched. - Michael Venom Page, on his elusive fighting style.

- You can't even hit them. It's like fencing and MMA combined. - Joe Rogan, describing MVP's point-fighting approach.

- I love to paint pictures, and martial arts is my canvas. - Michael Venom Page, on the artistry of combat.

🥋 The Evolution of MVP's Fighting Style

- MVP reflects on his transition from point fighting to MMA, emphasizing the importance of speed, elusiveness, and distance control.

- Joe Rogan praises MVP's style as a missing element in MMA, likening it to fencing combined with martial arts.

- MVP discusses how his unorthodox movements frustrate opponents, forcing them to adapt to unfamiliar patterns.

- Fighters like Wonderboy Thompson and Raymond Daniels are highlighted as pioneers of similar styles, though MVP's success in MMA sets him apart.

🧠 Mental Challenges and Fight Preparation

- MVP shares the psychological hurdles of competing, including the overwhelming pressure of his UFC debut and subsequent fights.

- He emphasizes the importance of staying relaxed and having fun in the cage, often using dancing as a way to reset mentally during fights.

- Rogan and MVP discuss the mental toll of weight cutting, injuries, and the anxiety of waiting for fight outcomes.

- MVP recounts fighting through severe injuries, including a mysterious ankle issue before his bout with Ian Garry.

🎥 Creativity Beyond the Cage

- MVP reveals his passion for filmmaking, having produced two short films: Runner, exploring the toxic mindset of athletes, and Wait, examining anxiety through contrasting perspectives.

- He plans to transition into acting and storytelling post-MMA, aiming to create meaningful narratives rather than relying on action-heavy plots.

- Rogan applauds MVP's creative ventures, noting the parallels between the artistry of filmmaking and martial arts.

💪 The Business of Fighting and Branding

- MVP stresses the importance of fighters marketing themselves effectively, citing his own success in building a brand before joining the UFC.

- He advises fighters to use their limited post-fight mic time strategically to leave a lasting impression.

- Rogan and MVP discuss the role of personality in fight promotion, referencing figures like Conor McGregor and Chael Sonnen.

- MVP highlights his entrepreneurial ventures, including a beef jerky company (Snapdown Snacks) and a Mexican restaurant in the UK.

🌍 The Future of MMA and Weight Cutting

- Rogan critiques the weight-cutting culture in MMA, calling it legalized cheating and advocating for hydration-based weight classes.

- MVP shares his approach to cutting weight responsibly, contrasting it with extreme methods that leave fighters depleted.

- The duo explores the evolution of MMA, with Rogan noting how younger fighters are integrating elite skills across disciplines from an early age.

- MVP expresses his desire to compete at welterweight again, seeing a clear path to a title shot in the UFC.