Paige VanZant is an American mixed martial artist, model, author and television personality who rose to fame through her active career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Born on March 26, 1994 in Dayton, Oregon, she quickly made a name for herself in the mixed martial arts world after making her professional debut in 2012.
VanZant’s UFC debut on November 22, 2014, against Kailin Curran marked a pivotal moment in her career, as she won by third-round TKO and earned the Fight of the Night bonus.
Her attractive personality and fighting prowess contributed to her popularity, making her a recognizable figure beyond the octagon.
File
- Full name: Paige Michelle VanZant
- Nickname: 12 Gauge
- Date of birth: March 26, 1994
- Age: 30 years old
- Gender: Female
- Place of birth: Dayton, Oregon, USA
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Mixed martial artist, model, author, television personality
- Height: 1.63 m (5 feet 4 inches)
- Parents: Steve VanZant and Rachel VanZant
- Siblings: Steven Sletten (older brother)
- Spouse: Austin Vanderford
- Children: Not applicable
- Relationship status: Married
- Religion: Not applicable
- Ethnicity: White
- Net worth: 3–4 million USD
Early life and education
Paige VanZant is currently aged 30. She was born on March 26, 1994 in Dayton, Oregon, to parents Steve VanZant and Rachel VanZant. Growing up in Sherwood with her brother Steven Sletten, she was exposed to many different activities from an early age.
Her father enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting, while her mother opened a dance studio called Chehalem Valley Dance Academy. This environment nurtured Paige’s love of dance; She has trained in ballet and other styles for over thirteen years.
After being bullied in high school, Paige’s family moved to Sparks, Nevada. This move coincided with her decision to pursue martial arts seriously after receiving advice from a police officer on self-defense. She began training at Ken Shamrock’s gym and quickly transitioned to mixed martial arts. Paige completed her high school education early, earning her GED at age 16 and then attended Truckee Meadows Community College.
Personal life
Paige VanZant married mixed martial artist Austin Vanderford in September 2018. The couple met through mutual friends in the MMA community and developed a strong relationship over their shared passion for fighting. They often support each other’s careers and share perspectives on each other’s lives on social media platforms. There have been no public reports of divorce or infidelity.
Career
VanZant’s career began when she made her professional MMA debut on June 30, 2012. She competed in various promotions before joining the UFC in December 2013 as part of newly established strawweight division. Throughout her UFC tenure, she has participated in several notable matches to showcase her skills and determination.
After leaving the UFC, she signed with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and later joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW), further diversifying her career.
Prize
- Fight of the Night (UFC): November 22, 2014, vs. Kailin Curran
- Nominated for various awards in MMA promotions
- author of Increase published in 2018
Net worth
Paige VanZant’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 and $4 million. This wealth stems from her successful career as a mixed martial artist, endorsements from major brands such as Reebok, modeling contracts, and appearances on television shows such as Dancing with the stars.
Argumentative
Throughout her career, Paige VanZant has been involved in many different controversies that have sparked public concern and debate.
One notable case occurred when she signed a sponsorship deal with Reebok shortly after her UFC debut. Critics questioned whether she deserved such a lucrative contract because her experience was limited at the time. UFC president Dana White defended the decision by emphasizing VanZant’s unique appeal and potential to attract fans.
In addition to sponsorship disputes, VanZant has also faced scrutiny regarding her fight decisions and performances in the octagon. After losing to Rose Namajunas at UFC Fight Night 80 in December 2015, some fans criticized her for not being fully prepared for such an important fight. This loss led to discussions about whether she was being pushed too quickly into high-stakes fights.
Social Media
- Instagram: @paigevanzant
- Twitter: @PaigeVanzant
Cinema
- The ultimate warrior (2014)
- Dancing with the stars (2016)
- AEW explosives (2022)
Records
Book
