Paige VanZant Announces MMA Return, “I definitely didn’t leave MMA because I wasn’t passionate about it”

Paige VanZant is back in the MMA game! After a five-year break from the octagon, the charismatic and skilled fighter has revealed that she will be stepping back into the cage with Global Fight League (GFL). Known for her fierce fighting style, electrifying personality, and trailblazing presence in the sport, VanZant’s return has generated considerable buzz in the MMA community. Her decision to join GFL is even more significant as she’s found a platform that emphasizes fighter welfare, a cause she’s long championed. Health benefits and a fighter-first mentality make this move even more exciting for her loyal fanbase.

In this article, we’ll dive into Paige VanZant’s journey, her decision to return, what this move means for her career, and the importance of supporting fighter welfare. Let’s take a closer look at the rise of Paige VanZant and what her return might look like in 2025.

The Rise of Paige VanZant

Before her hiatus, Paige VanZant was a household name in MMA. Her career started on a high note when she made her UFC debut in 2014. Known for her aggressive fighting style, she quickly gained a reputation for being both tough and entertaining. Her performances in the octagon, combined with her charming personality, earned her a massive following.

Throughout her career, VanZant fought some of the biggest names in the sport, including Michelle Waterson, Rose Namajunas, and Felice Herrig. But her journey wasn’t just limited to MMA. Paige also showcased her skills on the dance floor when she appeared on “Dancing with the Stars,” solidifying her place as a multi-dimensional athlete and media personality.

Despite the early success, her career took an unexpected turn. In 2020, VanZant made the decision to leave the UFC after her contract expired. She then moved on to bare-knuckle boxing, where she gained mixed reactions. But after a few years of competing in a different format, Paige realized that MMA was where her heart truly lay. After a five-year hiatus, the itch to fight again became too strong to ignore, and she knew it was time to come home to MMA.

The Global Fight League: A Fighter’s Dream

Paige’s decision to return to the MMA world isn’t just about fighting—it’s also about the future of fighters. Joining the Global Fight League (GFL) is a strategic choice for Paige, as the organization is built on fighter welfare. GFL’s approach stands out because it prioritizes the health and well-being of its athletes. For years, there have been concerns about the physical toll that MMA takes on fighters, and many athletes have spoken out about the lack of support they receive once their fighting careers end.

Global Fight League promises to change that by offering comprehensive health benefits, including medical insurance, which is often a luxury fighters can’t afford. Paige has spoken at length about how important this initiative is to her and how much it means to be part of an organization that values its fighters long after the final bell rings.

VanZant’s decision to return to MMA with GFL also comes at a time when fighter activism is at an all-time high. Many MMA fighters have been vocal about the need for more fighter protections, health coverage, and financial stability. Paige’s role in helping to shape the future of this movement is a significant one, and her leadership in this space could inspire others to take a stand for their rights.

What’s Next for Paige VanZant?

As Paige makes her official return, fans are eager to know what’s next for her in the cage. Will she reclaim her former glory in the UFC, or will she carve out a new path in GFL? At this stage, it’s still unclear what her long-term goals are. However, one thing is certain: Paige VanZant has the talent, drive, and fanbase to make a successful comeback.

Her announcement has already created ripples in the MMA world, with fans eagerly awaiting her first fight. While there’s no denying that the competition in MMA has evolved over the past five years, VanZant is known for her resilience and adaptability. Her return could signal a new era for her career, and fans are hopeful that she will bring the same fire and determination that made her a star.

Fighter Welfare: A Cause Close to Paige’s Heart

One of the most compelling aspects of Paige VanZant’s return is her commitment to fighter welfare. In a sport that demands so much physically and mentally, VanZant’s advocacy for fighter health and well-being is a breath of fresh air. For too long, fighters have been left to fend for themselves once they retire or suffer injuries. The physical toll MMA takes on an athlete’s body is undeniable, and many fighters struggle with the long-term effects of their careers.

VanZant’s move to Global Fight League is part of a broader push for better fighter protections. She has made it clear that her decision to return isn’t just about her own career—it’s about the future of the sport. By joining GFL, she’s helping pave the way for a more sustainable and fighter-friendly environment. She’s determined to make sure that fighters, regardless of their fame or success, are taken care of after they leave the sport.

This passion for fighter welfare is something that fans can truly admire. Paige isn’t just a fighter—she’s also a leader and advocate for positive change in the sport she loves. Her return to MMA comes at a time when the conversation around fighter health is gaining traction, and she’s using her platform to bring attention to these important issues.

The Return of Paige VanZant: A New Chapter in Her MMA Career

Paige VanZant’s return to MMA is more than just a comeback—it’s a statement. It signals that she’s ready to take on new challenges and make her mark once again in the sport. Whether she wins or loses in the cage, her role as an advocate for fighter welfare will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the industry.

As VanZant prepares for her first fight in the Global Fight League, fans can expect her to bring everything she’s got. Her skillset has evolved, and she’s more determined than ever to prove herself as one of the best in the sport. But beyond the fights, her commitment to fighter rights and health benefits is what truly sets her apart.

Conclusion

Paige VanZant’s return to MMA with Global Fight League is a thrilling development for fans and athletes alike. With her fighter-first mentality and focus on health benefits, VanZant is making waves in an industry that has often neglected its fighters’ well-being. Her decision to rejoin the sport is not just about her own career—it’s about creating a better, more supportive future for all MMA athletes. As the excitement builds for her upcoming fights, there’s no doubt that Paige’s legacy will continue to inspire a new generation of fighters.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates on the latest in MMA, including exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and expert opinions on upcoming events. For a deeper dive into the strategies behind successful sports events, check out our article on how fighters navigate their careers and make the most of their time in the spotlight.

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