London, July 29, 2025 – UFC fighter Michael “Venom” Page faced tense moments while refereeing a boxing tournament promoted by YouTuber KSI, when competitor Danny Aarons suffered a severe knee injury during a fight. The event, pitting fans against fighters in an elimination format, was marked by drama and Page’s swift intervention, stopping the bout and calling for medical assistance. Broadcast on KSI’s YouTube channel, the tournament drew thousands of viewers and sparked widespread discussion on social media. Aarons’ injury raised concerns about safety in amateur boxing events involving influencers, while Page was praised for his professional response.
The tournament, held in London, offered cash prizes and a potential contract with Misfits Boxing, KSI’s promotion. Aarons, known for prior Misfits appearances, was facing fan Emre Utku when his knee collapsed, halting the fight in the first round.
- Tournament format: Fans faced fighters in two-minute rounds, with increasing prizes per round survived.
- Top prize: £15,000 and a Misfits contract for defeating champion Viddal Riley.
- Page’s role: Besides refereeing, he guided competitors and ensured ring safety.
The incident with Aarons shocked attendees, but the event continued with other bouts, culminating in Kia Jami’s victory, who completed the challenge and claimed the top prize.
Michael Page’s quick response
Michael “Venom” Page, preparing for UFC 319, showed quick reflexes upon noticing the severity of Danny Aarons’ injury. After Aarons collapsed in the ring, Page stopped the fight and summoned the medical team, suggesting the injury might involve the thigh tendon. Aarons, visibly shaken, was stabilized and taken by stretcher to an ambulance for hospital treatment.
While awaiting medical attention, Aarons expressed frustration, believing he had the upper hand in the fight. “I don’t know what happened, but I can’t move my leg. I need to get to the hospital,” he said from the ring. The scene, captured in KSI’s video, stirred emotions among fans, who praised Page’s calm and professional handling online.
- Initial diagnosis: Knee injury, possibly tendon-related, per Page’s assessment.
- Medical intervention: Aarons was stabilized on-site before transfer.
- Online reaction: Fans highlighted Page’s composure and professionalism.
The UFC fighter, known for his dynamic octagon style, showed versatility as a referee, reinforcing his ties to the boxing and MMA community.
Tournament structure and highlights
KSI’s tournament was designed to blend entertainment and competition, pitting inexperienced fans against amateur and professional fighters. Each round grew tougher, culminating in a face-off against Viddal Riley, the current British cruiserweight champion. The cash prizes motivated participants, but Aarons’ injury underscored the inherent risks.
Kia Jami was the standout, defeating three opponents before facing Riley. Despite taking heavy blows, Jami lasted two minutes, securing £15,000 and earning widespread praise. The video, posted on KSI’s channel, has garnered millions of views, with comments split between Jami’s achievement and concern for Aarons.
- Final challenge: Facing Viddal Riley, undefeated with 13 professional boxing wins.
- Other bouts: Emre Utku advanced after Aarons’ injury but was stopped in the next round.
- Viewership: The video gained massive traction, boosted by Page’s presence and the injury drama.
Misfits Boxing, set to expand into MMA, used the event to strengthen its brand, though the incident raised questions about competitor preparation.
Safety in amateur boxing events
Danny Aarons’ injury reignited debates about safety in boxing events involving influencers and amateurs. While Misfits Boxing has medical protocols, including on-site ambulances and staff, critics argue that participants’ lack of experience can heighten risks.
Combat sports experts suggest such events should enhance pre-fight medical screenings and mandatory training. Page’s swift response, however, was seen as effective refereeing, minimizing further complications in Aarons’ case.
- Medical protocols: Ambulances and doctors were available on-site.
- Common criticisms: Lack of experience among fans and YouTubers in physical bouts.
- Proposed solutions: Stricter medical exams and mandatory training.
Misfits Boxing has yet to release an official update on Aarons’ condition, but fans await further news.
KSI’s role and Misfits’ expansion
KSI, whose real name is Olajide Olatunji, has invested in Misfits Boxing to merge entertainment with combat sports. Michael Page’s involvement in the event underscores the promotion’s ties to high-profile athletes, while Viddal Riley’s participation adds credibility to the bouts.
Misfits plans to debut in MMA, with events that could attract more UFC and boxing stars. The July 29 tournament served as a showcase for this vision, despite Aarons’ injury. KSI, also a fighter, used the event to promote his brand and engage his largely young fanbase.
- Misfits’ goal: Blend entertainment with competitive fights.
- Future plans: MMA events planned for 2026.
- KSI’s impact: His popularity drives the promotion’s visibility.
Kia Jami’s success and Page’s presence are likely to ensure future events, though safety will remain a focal point.
Michael Page and UFC 319
While taking on side projects, Michael “Venom” Page keeps his focus on his UFC career. Set to face Jared Cannonier at UFC 319, Page used KSI’s tournament to maintain visibility outside the octagon. His refereeing, coupled with his quick response to Aarons’ injury, bolstered his reputation in the combat sports world.
Page, training at London Shootfighters, has long-standing ties with KSI, explaining his role in the event. In the UFC, he aims to solidify his standing in the welterweight division after strong showings in 2024.
- Next fight: Page faces Cannonier on August 23, 2025, at UFC 319.
- UFC career: Page seeks a win streak to contend for the title.
- KSI connection: Longtime friendship with the YouTuber and his team.
The tournament incident is unlikely to affect his preparation but highlights his versatility in combat sports.