Paige VanZant has become a household name for combat sports fans and beyond, thanks to her incredible athleticism, magnetic personality, and diverse talents. A professional mixed martial artist, bare-knuckle boxer, author, and social media influencer, she has carved out a unique space for herself in the sporting and entertainment worlds. With her never-say-die attitude and infectious energy, Paige has inspired countless fans and athletes alike.
Born on March 26, 1994, Paige VanZant has achieved more in her 20s than most people do in a lifetime. From competing in the UFC octagon to gracing the dance floor on "Dancing with the Stars," she has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible. Her journey is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and a fearless pursuit of one's passions. Paige has redefined what it means to be a modern athlete by embracing challenges both inside and outside the ring.
But Paige VanZant's story is more than just about victories and fame—it's about overcoming personal struggles, staying grounded, and using her platform to empower others. Whether you're a combat sports enthusiast or someone looking to be inspired by a story of determination and success, Paige's life offers valuable lessons. In this article, we’ll dive deep into her biography, career highlights, and impact on the world, along with answering some of the most frequently asked questions about her life and career.
Table of Contents
- Who is Paige VanZant? Biography and Early Life
- Personal Details: Age, Height, and More
- How Did Paige VanZant Start Her Career?
- Paige VanZant's UFC Career Highlights
- Transition to Bare-Knuckle Boxing
- What Was Paige VanZant's Role in "Dancing with the Stars"?
- Paige VanZant as an Author
- How Does Paige VanZant Use Social Media?
- Paige VanZant’s Personal Life: Husband and Relationships
- What Challenges Has Paige VanZant Overcome?
- Paige VanZant's Fitness and Business Ventures
- Paige VanZant’s Philanthropic Efforts
- What Is Paige VanZant’s Net Worth?
- What Are Paige VanZant's Future Goals?
- FAQs About Paige VanZant
- Conclusion
Who is Paige VanZant? Biography and Early Life
Paige Michelle VanZant was born on March 26, 1994, in Dundee, Oregon, USA. Raised in a small town, her upbringing was far from ordinary. Her parents owned a dance studio, where Paige spent much of her childhood immersed in dance training. This early exposure to physical discipline and performance would later serve as the foundation for her athletic career.
As a teenager, Paige faced bullying, which shaped her resilient and determined character. She found solace in mixed martial arts (MMA), a sport that not only empowered her but also provided a new sense of purpose. By the time she was 18, Paige had already begun competing in amateur MMA fights, showcasing her natural talent and competitive spirit.
Paige's transition from an aspiring fighter to a professional athlete was rapid. She made her professional MMA debut in 2012, and her relentless drive caught the attention of major promotions, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The rest, as they say, is history, with Paige rising through the ranks to become one of the most recognizable faces in combat sports.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Paige Michelle VanZant |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Dundee, Oregon, USA |
| Height | 5’4” (163 cm) |
| Weight | 125 lbs (57 kg) |
| Profession | Mixed Martial Artist, Bare-Knuckle Boxer, Author, Influencer |
| Spouse | Austin Vanderford |
How Did Paige VanZant Start Her Career?
Paige's journey into combat sports began in her teenage years. While living in Nevada, she discovered a local gym offering MMA training and decided to give it a shot. Her natural athleticism, honed through years of dance, made her a quick learner. Within a few months, she started competing in amateur fights, earning a reputation as a skilled and fearless competitor.
Her professional debut came in June 2012, when she faced Jordan Nicole Gaza at UWF’s “Tournament of Warriors.” Despite being relatively inexperienced, Paige emerged victorious, setting the tone for a promising career. Her early successes caught the attention of Invicta FC, a promotion dedicated to women’s MMA, where she continued to build her resume with impressive performances.
In 2013, Paige joined the UFC, becoming one of the youngest fighters on the roster. Her debut fight against Kailin Curran in November 2014 was a showstopper, earning her a "Fight of the Night" bonus. Paige's unique fighting style, which combined striking and grappling, quickly made her a fan favorite.
Paige VanZant's UFC Career Highlights
Paige VanZant’s time in the UFC was marked by thrilling fights and a growing fan base. Competing in the strawweight and flyweight divisions, Paige faced some of the toughest opponents in the sport, including Rose Namajunas and Michelle Waterson. Her ability to adapt and improve with each fight showcased her determination and skill.
One of her most memorable victories came in December 2015, when she defeated Alex Chambers via armbar submission. This win not only highlighted her grappling prowess but also solidified her status as a rising star in MMA. Another standout performance was her flying switch kick knockout of Bec Rawlings in 2016, which earned her "Performance of the Night" honors.
Although her UFC record was a mix of wins and losses, Paige’s charisma and fighting spirit ensured she remained in the spotlight. She eventually left the UFC in 2020 to explore other opportunities, including bare-knuckle boxing and media ventures.
Transition to Bare-Knuckle Boxing
In August 2020, Paige VanZant signed a multi-fight contract with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), a move that surprised many fans and critics. Known for its intense and gritty nature, bare-knuckle boxing was a significant departure from the MMA world Paige was accustomed to. However, she embraced the challenge with her trademark enthusiasm.
Her debut fight in February 2021 against Britain Hart showcased her courage and willingness to step outside her comfort zone. While she didn’t win the fight, Paige demonstrated resilience and hinted at her potential in this new combat arena. Her second fight, against Rachael Ostovich in July 2021, further cemented her status as a versatile and adaptable fighter.
Through her bare-knuckle boxing career, Paige has continued to push boundaries and explore new facets of her athletic abilities. Her willingness to take risks has endeared her to fans and solidified her reputation as a fearless competitor.
What Was Paige VanZant's Role in "Dancing with the Stars"?
In 2016, Paige VanZant showcased her versatility by competing on the popular reality show "Dancing with the Stars." Paired with professional dancer Mark Ballas, Paige’s background in dance proved to be a significant advantage. Her performances were consistently praised for their energy, creativity, and technical skill.
Throughout the competition, Paige and Mark dazzled audiences and judges alike, making it all the way to the finals. Although they finished as runners-up, Paige’s time on the show introduced her to a broader audience and highlighted her multifaceted talents. Her success on "Dancing with the Stars" also opened doors to other media opportunities, further expanding her career beyond combat sports.
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