What's Next For Paige VanZant After Major Scare?

Paige VanZant has had to pull out of her world title fight in Power Slap after suffering a neck injury, raising questions over her next steps. 

VanZant was on course to make history on June 27, as she was set to become the first female to secure a world little shot in the sport against Mikael Michelle Brown. VanZant has had a mixed start to her Power Slap career. She won on her debut, beating Christine Wolmarans. Her next performance was far from her best.

VanZant Reacts

Paige secured a draw against Chelsea Dodson in her last contest. The result came after VanZant had a point take-off for clubbing. This is where the slap is thrown from outside of the zone, that being, the heel of the hand under the opponents chin. VanZant has said the neck injury could have resulted in her becoming paralysed as she tries desperately to establish the cause. 

"The next steps, they ordered me a bunch more tests. We have to figure out why this happened. Basically, I have a bleed in my spine, we have to figure out where it came from and why this happened because it is extremely rare and typically only happens in high trauma situations like car accidents and obviously I haven’t been in a car accident.

"If it does get bigger, there is a chance I will be paralyzed. That’s just a reality, I’ve come to accept. I feel really good. I’m in good spirits. It’s concerning and I’m being very careful and obviously I pulled out for a reason. But the way I feel right now, I have a feeling this was just a freak thing. My body’s going to reabsorb the bleed, it’s not going to get worse and I’m going to continue on with my career," VanZant said 

Options

With the time off, VanZant can think about her future. She was set to make her debut in the Global Fight League, something she had talked up. Paige spoke glowing over the organization giving fighters big paydays. However, their events never launched for the targeted date of April, meaning her MMA return was delayed. 

VanZant has also said she would like to return to the UFC. She left the UFC after racking up three defeats in her last four bouts. During that time, she has fought in various promotions, including BKFC, AEW and Misfits. VanZant’s husband, Austin Vanderford, recently made his UFC debut at UFC Seattle, as she did not rule out a return. 

"I didn’t realise how special it was. And now seeing that process and leaving, like maybe I took it for granted. I know it would take a lot of work for me and a lot of dedication for me to earn my shot back into the UFC. But definitely, my heart misses it. So we could [come back], we’ll see," VanZant said 

However, with worries over her health, Paige has alternatives to fighting. She has been cast in the new horror film Skillhouse. It is based on 10 influencers who are stuck in a house, as they must go through social media challenges to stay alive. VanZant will appear alongside rapper 50 Cent, while Bryce Hall is also in the film. VanZant has plenty to consider. 

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