Paige VanZant, whose full name is Paige Michelle VanZant, is a well-known American mixed martial artist, author, and model. She was born on March 26, 1994, in Dundee, Oregon, and rose to fame in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where she competed in the women's strawweight division.
Early Life and Career
VanZant’s interest in martial arts began at a young age, and she started training in boxing, kickboxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. She made her professional MMA debut in 2012, competing in various regional promotions before joining the UFC in 2014. Her early life and career were marked by her determination and perseverance, which ultimately led her to become one of the most recognizable faces in women’s MMA.
Rise to Fame in the UFC
VanZant’s UFC debut took place on November 22, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 57, where she defeated Kailin Curran via TKO in the first round. This victory marked the beginning of her successful run in the organization, earning her a reputation as a formidable and exciting fighter. Her charisma and marketability also made her a fan favorite, leading to various endorsement deals and media appearances.
| UFC Fight | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| UFC Fight Night 57 | Kailin Curran | Win via TKO |
| UFC Fight Night 80 | Rose Namajunas | Loss via Submission |
| UFC on FOX 21 | Bec Rawlings | Win via KO |
Life Outside of the UFC
VanZant has also pursued a career in modeling and writing. She has appeared on the cover of various magazines, including Shape and ESPN The Magazine, and has written a memoir titled “Rise: Surviving the Fight of My Life,” which details her experiences with bullying, depression, and her journey to becoming a successful MMA fighter.
Post-UFC Career and Future Plans
After parting ways with the UFC in 2020, VanZant signed with the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), where she made her debut in February 2021. Her decision to transition to bare-knuckle boxing has been met with interest and curiosity from fans, who are eager to see how she will perform in this new discipline. As she continues to navigate her career and explore new opportunities, VanZant remains a beloved and respected figure in the world of combat sports.
What is Paige VanZant’s current fighting organization?
+Paige VanZant currently competes in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).
What is the title of Paige VanZant’s memoir?
+Paige VanZant’s memoir is titled “Rise: Surviving the Fight of My Life.”
What is Paige VanZant’s notable achievement in the UFC?
+Paige VanZant’s notable achievement in the UFC includes her victory over Kailin Curran at UFC Fight Night 57, which marked her successful debut in the organization.
