Paige VanZant, once a prominent figure in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), has recently experienced a shift in focus as she shifted her spotlight to support her husband, Austin Vanderford, during his remarkable debut in the UFC. This moment not only highlights Vanderford’s talent but also underscores the shared journey of two athletes in a fiercely competitive world. With Vanderford’s victory against Nikolay Veretennikov by TKO at UFC Fight Night 252, we are reminded that within the realm of combat sports, accomplishments are often magnified when shared between loved ones.
In an exclusive conversation with TMZ Sports, Paige expressed how the euphoria of witnessing her husband’s success eclipsed her own. “It almost felt more special than any of my wins,” she remarked, emphasizing the emotional bond of support and pride that comes from witnessing a partner’s achievements in a sport fraught with challenges. This sense of camaraderie is not only pivotal for their personal relationship but also for their mutual training regimen. Vanderford’s commitment to the sport—including his quick transition to a new training schedule after his debut—demonstrates an unwavering dedication that is characteristic of elite fighters.
Austin Vanderford, now sporting a professional record of 13-2 following a last-minute fight opportunity, has clearly made a solid impression on the UFC hierarchy. Paige shed light on the importance of establishing a presence in the organization, noting that this is merely the beginning for her husband. “It’s just playing that game of who they want him to be matched up with,” she indicated, hinting at the strategic nature of fighter matchups within the promotion. The relationship between a fighter and their management becomes even more complex when considering factors like timing, opponent selection, and preparation.
Simultaneously, Paige is gearing up for her own fight in the burgeoning world of PowerSlap, with her bout scheduled for March 7. As she prepares for a match against Mikael-Michelle Brown, it’s intriguing how each fighter’s journey intersects. Their commitment to their craft reflects in their training habits, with Vanderford opting not to take breaks as he aids Paige in her preparations. “If I get another short notice [fight] I gotta be ready at any second,” he emphasizes, highlighting the relentless pace of their lives in training.
Paige VanZant and Austin Vanderford embody the spirit of teamwork in combat sports. Their individual ambitions are intricately tied to one another, reinforcing the notion that in a sport often marked by individual glory, shared experiences create a richer narrative. As they both continue to pursue their respective paths—one in the Octagon and the other in the slap arena—their bond serves as a testament to the power of support and love in achieving greatness.