In a surprising twist to her already eventful career, Paige VanZant has officially declared herself a free agent once again, following the indefinite postponement of her anticipated debut with the Global Fight League (GFL) against Randi Field. The former UFC flyweight and strawweight contender took to Instagram on April 10, 2025, to announce her free agency status, leaving fans and pundits speculating about her next move.
VanZant, who has been a prominent figure in the combat sports world since her exit from the UFC in 2020, has explored various avenues within the sport during her hiatus from mixed martial arts (MMA). In addition to her stint in the UFC, where she made a name for herself, she has also competed in bare-knuckle boxing and professional boxing. Interestingly, she has found considerable success in Power Slap, boasting an undefeated record in the slap-fighting arena.
Despite her diverse experiences, the Oregon native has not stepped into an MMA cage since her last fight in July 2020, where she suffered a first-round armbar submission loss to Amanda Ribas in Abu Dhabi, UAE. That defeat marked a significant moment in her career, as it was her final appearance in the UFC, a promotion she has expressed nostalgia for in recent months.
Earlier this year, VanZant signed with GFL, a promotion that aimed to make its mark on the MMA landscape. However, the organization faced immediate challenges, as news broke that GFL was canceling its inaugural duo of MMA events, which were scheduled for May. The reaction from the MMA community was overwhelmingly negative, with many expressing doubts about GFL's viability moving forward. This uncertainty prompted VanZant to reassess her commitment to the promotion.
As the news of GFL's troubles spread, fans began to wonder what the future holds for VanZant. The fighter, known for her charisma and determination, has been open about her desire to return to the octagon. "I miss competing in MMA, and I'm excited about the possibility of getting back into the cage," she stated in a previous interview. With her recent declaration of free agency, the door seems to have opened for a potential return to the UFC, where she first gained fame.
VanZant's journey has been anything but ordinary. Since leaving the UFC, she has embraced various forms of combat sports, showcasing her versatility and resilience. In bare-knuckle boxing, she faced tough opponents and gained valuable experience. Meanwhile, her undefeated streak in Power Slap has brought her a different kind of recognition, proving that she can excel in multiple disciplines.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting her return to MMA, and the recent developments have only heightened their anticipation. With several fighters expressing skepticism about GFL's future, VanZant's decision to become a free agent has sparked conversations about her next potential destination. Will she make a triumphant return to the UFC, or will she explore other options? The MMA world is watching closely.
As of now, the situation remains fluid. VanZant's recent post on her Instagram story declaring herself a free agent has left many wondering what lies ahead. She was one of the fighters originally scheduled to compete at the now-canceled GFL events, and her departure from the promotion raises questions about the contracts signed by other fighters as well.
In the competitive landscape of MMA, VanZant's return could have significant implications. If she does decide to rejoin the UFC, it would not only mark a personal comeback but could also reignite her rivalry with other fighters who have emerged during her absence. The UFC has seen a surge in talent over the past few years, and VanZant's reentry could shake things up in the flyweight and strawweight divisions.
Moreover, her experience in bare-knuckle boxing and slap fighting could provide her with a unique edge as she transitions back to MMA. VanZant's ability to adapt and learn from different combat sports could enhance her skill set, making her a formidable opponent for anyone in the octagon.
As fans speculate about her next move, it's essential to recognize the journey that has brought VanZant to this point. From her early days in the UFC to her recent endeavors in various combat sports, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the fight game. Her resilience and determination have garnered her a loyal following, and many are eager to see what the future holds.
In conclusion, Paige VanZant's declaration of free agency marks a pivotal moment in her career. With GFL's uncertain future and her desire to return to MMA, the coming weeks could reveal exciting developments. The MMA community is abuzz with anticipation as they await news of VanZant's next fight and potential return to the octagon. Will she find a new home in the UFC, or will she carve out a new path in another promotion? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Paige VanZant is not done fighting yet, and her journey is far from over.
