Ronda Rousey is the unquestioned top women’s star in UFC, and she might be the company’s most important fighter at this point. But if she keeps winning fights in less than a minute, it’s possible interest in her fights may plateau. Enter 21-year-old strawweight Paige VanZant, who may start stealing some of the limelight.
Here are 3 reasons to think VanZant might become the next breakthrough fighter in women’s MMA.
She’s Really Good
Rousey isn’t the only fighter who can bring it. VanZant can’t boast an unblemished record like Rousey because she suffered a defeat in January 2013 at Invicta FC 4, but she has had her hand raised in each of her last four fights, in a variety of ways. VanZant has won by submission twice, TKO once, and by decision. Her game is versatile, and expanding. That’s impressive for someone who is barely old enough to drink a beer.
She Is Easy On The Eyes
When Rousey isn’t looking like a crazed animal, she’s very attractive. The same can be said of VanZant, who knows she’s sexy. A trip through her Instagram page might convince you she is a model.
A photo posted by Paige VanZant (@paigevanzantufc) on Sep 7, 2015 at 8:10pm PDT
Never lose your smile baby #ufc191 A photo posted by Paige VanZant (@paigevanzantufc) on Sep 3, 2015 at 9:26pm PDT
Amazing pictures from today taken by @hansgutknecht so #blesses #ufc191
A photo posted by Paige VanZant (@paigevanzantufc) on Aug 31, 2015 at 10:20pm PDT
Do not look at her 115-pound frame and conclude she can’t damage you very badly. She most certainly can. Her nickname is “12 Gauge” so you definitely don’t want to try her.
She Can Finish Opponents Like “Rowdy”
VanZant fought on Saturday night on the UFC 191 card, and finished her opponent in a fashion that’s become familiar to UFC fans: with an armbar. Rousey has added new elements to her game, most notably her striking, but the armbar remains her most feared weapon.
Alex Chambers learned the hard way one minute into Round 3 of her scrap with Vanzant that the youngster has her own armbar to be reckoned with. This was the first time in VanZant’s pro career she submitted an opponent with that move, but if she keeps using it, she'll be nudging Rousey to spend more time on the big screen.
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