Paul Daley believes he was unfairly penalized in his loss to Michael Page and claims corruption was involved in the result of the Bellator 216 headliner.
Page defeated Daley in a close fight, earning a unanimous decision from the judges. Fireworks were expected between the two British strikers, whose hatred for each other has become apparent in a feud that’s simmered for two years. But, surprisingly, it never quite reached a boiling point Saturday night at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.
Instead, Daley came out poised, relying on his wrestling to employ a takedown-heavy attack. As far as Daley is concerned, he won the fight three rounds to two.
In an Instagram post on Sunday, a disappointed Daley expressed his belief that the fight’s lackluster pace was held against him, and he accused Bellator of influencing the outcome.
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. 🤔
Given Daley believes he used a smart plan against a crafty striker, Page’s remarks on his victory during the post-fight press conference are sure to get under Daley’s skin.
“I made a lot of mistakes myself. But at the same time, I told you guys he was a bitch,” Page said. “He talked all this stuff about being able to knock me out, and he ran the whole first round. And then all he wanted to do was play ground work – play wrestling.”
Daley and Bellator President Scott Coker have had a testy relationship in the past. It was just last year that Daley asked for his release from the promotion, claiming a lack of respect from Coker and Co. Both sides eventually worked things out, though, prior to booking the fight with Page. But it seems a big step backward has been taken in the wake of the outcome.
For complete coverage of Bellator 216, check out the MMA Events section of the site.
