Polaris 30 results, highlights: Michael Page out-grapples Carlos Condit in spirited, back-and-forth match

Michael Page, undefeated grappler? That is indeed the case, as "MVP" defeated fellow UFC veteran Carlos Condit via unanimous decision in a competitive, back-and-forth grappling match Saturday in the main event of Polaris 30, which took place from Fairfield Halls in London, England.

Despite being known primarily for his striking background, Page, 37, showcased a different side to his game against Condit, securing multiple takedowns — including a pair of slick duck-under slams — and fended off Condit's leglock arsenal to earn the win in his unexpected foray into competitive grappling.

"Obviously what happens in training, comes out here," Page said after the 10-minute match. "He's a tough guy, really strong, grips are crazy. I'm used to being the one that has the mad grips. [He had] great grips, good leglocks, but I was not subbing."

Condit retired from MMA in July 2021 but is a beloved and well-respected figure in the fight game. The former WEC champion express confusion upon the announcement of the decision but was classy in defeat.

"It's an honor, I'm a big fan of Michael," Condit said. "Obviously I'm disappointed it didn't go my way tonight, I thought I had some great moments throughout the match, and I'm just going to get back and work on some stuff obviously."

Condit, 40, noted that he'd like to compete again in submission grappling.

Page spoke to Uncrowned's "The Ariel Helwani Show" this past week about his surprising decision to test his grappling chops against Condit following his recent UFC decision loss to Ian Machado Garry.

"I feel like I needed it," Page said. "This is why I wanted to take a break in the first place. Even though I've given myself something to do essentially in a competitive way, there is still not the same kind of pressure. So, it 100 percent feels so nice and just the environment in the gym, just learning, being a complete student again, and not being so specific in terms of the rankings and who do I fight next, every movement means something. It's just, nah, I can go out there and enjoy myself.

"It's kind of like when I first came into the sport. It was supposed to be six months, I think it was nine months after I actually joined the sport that I had my first MMA fight. It's been very specific to opponents since then. I thought, 'Just let me give myself a break and be a student again.'"

Polaris 30: Condit vs. MVP aired live on UFC Fight Pass. Results and highlights can be seen below.

Main card

Michael Page def. Carlos Condit via unanimous decision

Helena Crevar def. Nia Blackman via unanimous decision

Keith Krokorian def. Jed Hue via unanimous decision

Nathaniel Wood def. Cameron Else via unanimous decision

Dante Leon def. Ellis Younger via unanimous decision

Eoghan O’Flanagan def. Philippe Geyer via unanimous decision