It’s been five years since Paige VanZant fought her last fight in the UFC octagon, but “12 Gauge” continues to find success outside of the cage.
While in the fight promotion, VanZant appeared on “Dancing with the Stars” and Food Network’s “Chopped” showing her mainstream appeal. Since parting ways with the fight promotion in 2020, VanZant has fought twice in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, made her professional wrestling debut for All Elite Wrestling (AEW), fought a professional boxing match, and has competed three times in Power Slap.
The 31 year-old has millions of followers on social media and landed the December cover of Playboy Sweden. VanZant and Playboy Sweden made the announcement via Instagram on Tuesday.
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“Right now, I feel like the most “me” I’ve ever been. I’m in a chapter where I get to choose myself my creativity, my femininity, my strength, my fun. I’m not boxed in by one title anymore. I’m all of them at once, and it finally feels aligned,” VanZant told the magazine.
“Fighting taught me discipline, grit, and how powerful my body truly is. But it also showed me the importance of balance. I can be a woman who throws punches and still loves glam, art, and sensuality. Being a woman has never been a limitation; it’s been my superpower,” she said
VanZant explained why she agreed to do the Playboy feature, saying, “Because it represents freedom, confidence, and owning your sexuality on your own terms. I’ve spent years proving my toughness. This feature is about showing the side of me that’s feminine, confident, playful, and totally in control.”
Looking ahead to 2026, VanZant says to expect more ‘unexpected moves’ as she boldly lives her life.
“A chapter of evolution. More creativity, more confidence, more unexpected moves. I’m stepping into a year where I’m not just participating in my life, I’m leading it boldly,” she said.
