Paige VanZant (born March 26, 1994) from the USA is a sport, authorship, fashion, internet and television beauty.
Paige VanZant was born on March 26, 1994, in Dundee, Oregon. Raised in Sherwood, Oregon, she was introduced to dance at a young age, training in ballet, jazz, and hip-hop for over 13 years. Her diverse interests included riding dirt bikes and fishing. During high school, VanZant faced significant challenges, including bullying and sexual assault, experiences that fueled her determination to become a martial artist and advocate for others facing similar hardships.
Combat Sports Career
VanZant began her professional fighting career in 2012 and quickly gained attention for her performances in the UFC. Throughout her tenure, she compiled an 8-5 record, showcasing her resilience and skill in the octagon. In 2020, she transitioned to the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), signing a four-fight contract reportedly worth over $1 million. However, her time in BKFC was marked by setbacks, including losses to Britain Hart and Rachel Ostovich. She later ventured into influencer boxing, facing Elle Brooke in a bout that ended in a controversial draw after VanZant was knocked down in the first round.
In 2024, VanZant made her debut in Power Slap, a combat sport involving open-handed strikes. Her second match ended in a draw due to an illegal blow, leaving her future in the sport uncertain. Despite these challenges, VanZant remains a prominent figure in combat sports.
Social Media and Earnings
VanZant has leveraged her social media presence to build a substantial income stream. With over 2 million Instagram followers, she has secured endorsement deals with brands like MVMT, Vitagoods, and Sun Valley Science. In 2019, she revealed that her earnings from Instagram posts surpassed those from her fighting career, stating, "With endorsements, I make way more money sitting at home posting pictures on Instagram than I do fighting."
In 2021, she launched her subscription-based website, paigefanzant.com, offering exclusive content to her fans. This platform reportedly generates between $40,000 and $60,000 monthly, with annual earnings projected to surpass $700,000 . Her financial success extends beyond traditional endorsements. In 2023, VanZant disclosed that she earned more in a single 24-hour period on OnlyFans than she had throughout her entire fight career. This revelation highlighted the significant income potential in digital platforms for influencers.
Television Appearances and Authorship
VanZant's versatility is evident in her television appearances. She competed on the 22nd season of Dancing with the Stars, where her performances garnered widespread attention. Additionally, she appeared on the culinary competition show Chopped, showcasing her diverse talents beyond the fighting arena.
In 2018, VanZant authored her memoir, Rise: Surviving the Fight of My Life, in which she candidly discusses her journey in combat sports, personal challenges, and the resilience required to overcome them. The book offers readers an intimate look into her life and the experiences that shaped her.
Fashion and Public Image
Known for her striking appearance and athletic physique, VanZant has made significant strides in the fashion industry. She has modeled for prominent brands such as Nike and Columbia Sportswear, blending her athletic background with fashion. Her public image is carefully curated, balancing her identity as a fighter with her roles as an influencer and entrepreneur.
Controversies and Public Scrutiny
Despite her success, VanZant has faced controversies that have sparked public debate. In 2017, she publicly stated she would not represent President Donald Trump at the Winter Olympics, leading to backlash from some fans. She later expressed hurt over accusations that she was "anti-American," emphasizing her pride in representing her country.
Her decision to transition from traditional fighting to platforms like OnlyFans has also been met with criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that her focus on digital platforms detracts from the legitimacy of her athletic career. However, VanZant has defended her choices, asserting her autonomy and the empowerment she derives from her endeavors outside traditional sports.
Conclusion
Paige VanZant's journey from a promising UFC fighter to a multifaceted entrepreneur and influencer underscores her adaptability and resilience. While her career has been marked by both achievements and controversies, she continues to navigate the complex intersection of sports, media, and business. Through her endeavors, VanZant challenges conventional expectations, carving out a unique space for herself in the public eye.
