Bellator 292 preview: Michael Page

Kicking off tomorrow night’s main card at Bellator 292 is a big welterweight bout with potential title ramifications. Former title challenger Michael “Venom” Page (20-2) returns to the Bellator cage as he faces rookie challenger Goiti Yamauchi (28-5).

This will be Page’s first combat sport event since he competed in a BKFC event against Mike Perry the previous August. Despite it being the betting favorite game, Page lost by decision. Prior to that, he lost a decision against Logan Storley for the interim welterweight championship.

That loss snapped a six-game winning streak. Now, he’s up against one of the best wrestlers in the division as he tries to climb back into title contention. Yamauchi has been with the promotion for nearly ten years. He has fought on both the 155 and 170 but has settled into this middleweight house.

Of his 28 professional victories, 21 have come via submission. Currently, he is on a three-fight winning streak as he has finished all three of his opponents. Two got those wins via TKO.

Bellator predicted 292

It’s very clear to see where both men want this fight. For Page, he wants to keep this fight afloat and wants to maintain it for the long term. He wants to be a sniper on the outside while holding Yamauchi on his feet.

If he can defend the takedown, I think he’s going to win. However, it won’t be easy. On the other hand, if Yamauchi could get to the battle, they would be completely in his realm. I definitely see a win in surrendering to Yamauchi if the battle continues on the ground for an extended period of time.

I think we’ll see some ground combat, but part of me can’t shake the feeling that this one goes the distance. I expect a split decision here. Yamauchi is not finished and is a good wrestler. The page will earn exchanges on foot. The question is, will Paige strike or Yamauchi wrestle the biggest moments. I lean toward Page at Bellator 292.

Prediction: Michael Page by Split Design