Former UFC fighter Paige VanZant sent shock waves through the world of combat sports last week. This was when she revealed that her time in free agency was coming to a close as she had signed on with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships (BKFC). 

Many expected her to sign with Bellator or some other mixed martial arts promotions, but ‘12 Gauge’ said she made the move to show fans she is not a pretty face afraid of getting cut in a bare-knuckle fight.

She elaborated more on the same in a chat with MMA Fighting, saying, “I understand people think I’m cute but I’m a fighter and an athlete first and foremost. A cut on your face always heals. I’ve been cut open before and people still think I’m pretty, and it hasn’t hurt my career yet.”

Read: “Contract Signed” – Paige VanZant Drops Big News

VanZant experienced this in 2015 as a 21-year-old when future UFC strawweight champion Rose Namajunas trounced her. ‘12 Gauge’ lost the fight and sustained lots of cuts on her face.

 It certainly hasn’t affected her time on social media. Anyone looking at her in her subsequent fights will not have known of her serious injuries. Moreover, VanZant feels her salary can help her correct any injuries. 

She said, “I have a plastic surgeon on speed dial and I can send him a text and say hey, you’ve got to fix me up.”

Paige VanZant excited to show off her striking

‘12 Gauge’ won more fights in mixed martial arts through submissions and decisions than through T/KO. Yet, she favors herself as a striker. This may be because, in not worrying about grappling or being taken down, she may harness her true potential.

She said, “It was the opportunity I was excited about. I’ve been a fan of their sport and it’s something that I’m really going to be able to show off my striking.”

Top Stories

Who Is Arman Tsarukyan’s Father? Nairi Tsarukyan’s Net Worth, Profession & Businesses

Conor McGregor Accidentally Leaks Personal Password Online While Live Streaming With His Son

Conor McGregor Shares Silver Lining After Vatican Abruptly Altered His Wedding Plans

Daniel Cormier and Jon Anik Among UFC Veterans to Lose Jobs After $7.7 Billion Paramount Deal

Only One UFC Fighter Troubled Khabib Nurmagomedov in Training, Reveals AKA Thailand Owner

Also, she sees her time at BKFC as something to help her transition to punditry. Her deal with the bare-knuckle organization will see her commentate. Also, with VanZant, the promotion will receive mainstream attention from casual fans, which will help it grow.  

Read: Paige VanZant Says She’s Not ‘Just a Pretty Face’

Do you see Paige VanZant having a successful bare-knuckle career? What do you make of her comments regarding the shocking move?