Paige VanZant embarked on her professional MMA journey in June 2012 and soon became a notable figure in the sport. Her UFC tenure from November 2014 to July 2020 saw her rise as a recognizable name in the mixed martial arts world. However, in July 2020, she decided to part ways with the UFC.
VanZant ventured into new avenues, exploring bare-knuckle boxing under the BKFC banner and making appearances in professional wrestling with AEW. Additionally, she transitioned into the realm of social media influencing, particularly on OnlyFans, where she gained significant attention.
Despite her departure from the UFC, VanZant acknowledged the platform the organization provided for fighters but expressed a desire for more freedom. In a 2022 interview on MMA Fighting’s ‘The Fighter vs. The Writer,’ she hinted at unlikely UFC return due to financial reasons, citing that the UFC didn’t pay enough compared to her other ventures.
Addressing criticism for her OnlyFans endeavors, VanZant opened up about her decision to join the platform on the Only Stans show in 2023. Initially hesitant due to perceived stigma, she highlighted the financial benefits and the ability to support her family as motivating factors. VanZant revealed that her income from OnlyFans surpassed her earnings from her entire fighting career within 24 hours of joining.
While acknowledging the success she’s found beyond fighting, VanZant emphasized her hard work in various industries and her pursuit of becoming a mainstream personality. OnlyFans emerged as her primary source of income, reflecting her adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit beyond the confines of MMA.
