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With the rise in popularity of women’s MMA, two women in particular have been responsible for bringing more eyeballs to the product. Not too long ago, Dana White was against the idea of starting a women’s division in the UFC, but today, Ronda Rousey has become the most marketable athlete in the world.
Other than Ronda, a certain Paige VanZant has been creating ripples in the sporting world. From bagging exclusive sponsorship with Reebok to proving her doubters and critics wrong, Paige has announced her arrival on the big stage. Although still very young, Paige VanZant has arguably become the face of the Strawweight division, and at UFC 191, she will be facing a veteran in Alex Chambers.
Paige and her management team at MMA Inc. were gracious enough to take time from their busy schedule, as I caught up with Paige for an exclusive interview for the Indian MMA fans.
Talking about her background in MMA, and her preference in techniques, Paige said, “For me, I’ve been known as a very well rounded fighter, and I think that’s really important, that you’re well rounded and comfortable in every situation that a fight can go. A lot of people focus on just one discipline, and when they get out of that, they’re in a difficult position. They’re only focused on getting a takedown and I can make them lose the fight. So I think it’s important that you’re well rounded, and are comfortable wherever the fight will go.
I like ground and pound, I don’t know if it is like a technique or discipline. I like to be on the ground, but I don’t necessarily go for submissions or anything.”
Her sponsorship deal with Reebok
Talking about her sponsorship deal with Reebok, and the amount of criticism she had received, Paige talked about being positive. “It was huge. I’ve been blessed; I’ve been getting so many amazing opportunities because of the UFC. I know there are going to be haters no matter how successful I am, and I just have to be thankful for all the blessings that I have, because all of it can be over before you know it. I just want to be happy, and be grateful for what I have.”
Paige will be facing a much older Alex Chambers at UFC 191, who also has an extensive background in BJJ and a strong stand up game. When asked about how she saw her style matching up with Alex’s, Paige said, “I think the reason why people have trouble fighting me is because I don’t come from a specific background, and they can’t prepare to fight me. I come in and I push the pace, and I think that pushes a lot of people off their game, as much as I push the pace through the whole fight. I’ll try to do the same with Alex, but I won’t underestimate her. She’s very good on the ground; I fought someone who was much older than me; Felice was older than me and had a lot of experience. So I’m ready for the battle.”
Her thoughts on Team Alpha Male and Faber – McGregor rivalry
Talking about her team, and how it felt to train alongside some of the biggest names in the sport today, Paige added, “I love training with my team. Team Alpha Male has a lot of high level athletes, and being able to train alongside champions; they push the pace and push me and I see what it takes to be a champion. You have to have an entirely different mindset when you’re at the gym, so they push the pace but at the same time, they love what they’re doing. That makes me feel great.”
Faber will be coaching the US team, against Conor McGregor and Europe. When asked about what she thought about the duo’s rivalry, Paige admitted that she doesn’t get drawn into the drama. “I don’t know a lot about it. I kind of try to stay away from the drama (laughs). But I’m really happy for Urijah. He’s an amazing coach, and he’s going to bring a lot to the table on TUF.”
Be sure to tune in at 7:30 AM on 6th September, as UFC 191 will be broadcasted live on Sony SIX and Sony KIX. The card will be headlined by “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, putting his Flyweight title on the line against John Dodson III.
