In the realm of mixed martial arts, Michael ‘Venom’ Page recently paid homage to the iconic wrestler The Undertaker during his UFC 299 debut against Kevin Holland. Page’s entrance was a spectacle reminiscent of the wrestling legend, complete with a druid cloak, The Undertaker’s theme music, purple lighting, and smoke effects. His performance was not limited to the visual tribute; he also executed The Undertaker’s signature taunt within the octagon, further solidifying the homage.
Page emerged victorious from the welterweight bout, securing a unanimous decision win despite a brief takedown by Holland in the second round. The Undertaker, acknowledging the tribute, extended his congratulations to Page on social media. The tweet from the WWE icon read, “Nice entrance & congrats on the W, @MichaelPage247 @UFC,” celebrating both the fighter’s creative entrance and his success in the fight.
The Undertaker’s influence in the sports world is well-documented, with his ‘Deadman’ persona being a testament to his dedication to professional wrestling. His impact is so profound that it occasionally spills over into other sports, as seen with Page and previously with Israel Adesanya, another UFC fighter who paid tribute to The Undertaker before his title defense at UFC 276. Adesanya’s entrance also featured the wrestler’s theme and a similar theatrical presentation, including a gold urn and an open crown hat.
With WWE and UFC now under the same corporate umbrella since their acquisition in September of the previous year, it’s anticipated that fans will witness more mixed martial artists incorporating wrestling-themed entrances into their routines. The crossover of these entertainment forms enhances the spectacle and pays respect to the legends who have paved the way in their respective fields.
Following his win, Page spoke about his experience in the UFC and his thoughts on the fight. In an interview with Megan Olivi on ESPN MMA, he expressed his comfort and sense of belonging in the UFC, praising the welcoming environment and the team. He also commended Holland as an incredible opponent and shared his enjoyment of the competition. Page’s comments reflect not only his skill as a fighter but also his sportsmanship and appreciation for the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
