On Saturday night, in the main event of the stacked Bellator 216 card, Paul Daley and Michael Page finally stepped into the cage together for an anticipated grudge match.
Although Daley had some real success in this fight, using his wrestling edge to ground the action on multiple occasions, he ultimately wound up losing a unanimous decision to his rival.
However, he does not agree with that verdict.
Post-fight, Paul Daley took to Instagram to share his disappointment with the judges’ decision. He also accused Bellator of protecting their golden goose Michael Page.
“I’m disappointed, MMA politics and Bellator protecting they’re investment. I feel I won 3 rounds to 2. IMO I beat that fool. Really. Close fight. It’s just sad MMA is going the way of Boxing. I’m a “striker” who wrestled so I lose, and the fool they pumped money into wins. 🤔 I look forward to getting home to my family and normality. 💯. FOAMS.” – Paul Daley on Instagram
Paul Daley is now on a two-fight skid, as he also he lost a decision to Jon Fitch in his next most recent fight. This skid was preceded by a highlight reel knockout defeat of Lorenz Larkin, and a submission loss to reigning Bellator welterweight champ Rory MacDonald.
Michael Page meanwhile, sits at a perfect 14-0, and advances to the second round of the Bellator Welterweight Grand Prix. He’ll meet former champion Douglas Lima in his semifinal bout.
Do you think Paul Daley deserved the judges’ nod against Michael Page at Bellator 216 on Saturday night?
This article first appeared on BJPENN.COM on 2/17/2019.