Paige VanZant is set to make history in Power Slap as she contends for the promotion`s inaugural women`s title during International Fight Week.
Since leaving the UFC in 2020, VanZant has explored various combat sports avenues, including Misfits Boxing and BKFC. However, she appears to have found a prominent role in Dana White`s Power Slap league.
Recently, VanZant returned to the UFC environment to corner her husband, Austin Vanderford, for his short-notice UFC debut at UFC Seattle. Vanderford secured a TKO victory in a bout that concluded with a post-fight scuffle.
Known as `12-Gauge`, VanZant was previously scheduled to compete in a new MMA promotion called GFL. However, her planned fight was canceled when GFL`s initial events were called off.
VanZant Targets First Women`s Power Slap Championship
The former UFC star`s last three competitive appearances have taken place in Dana White`s Power Slap, a sport she has expressed enjoyment participating in.
The 31-year-old secured a victory in her Power Slap debut against Christine Wolmarans, indicating her potential in the new sport. Months later, she faced Chelsea Dodson, the wife of UFC veteran John Dodson, in a match that ended in a draw.
This past March at Power Slap 12, VanZant earned her second win in the promotion. She delivered a dominant performance against Mikael Michelle Brown, resulting in a unanimous decision victory.
Following that win, VanZant publicly called for Dana White to grant her a title opportunity, stating: “Hey, Dana (White), where’s that (125lb) belt, baby? Put me on the next card. Let’s get some women’s belts. We’re here to stay. We’re here to knock b—— out and slap people all day.”
Responding to VanZant`s request, White has now scheduled her to compete for the first-ever women`s Power Slap championship. She will face Michelle Brown in a rematch on June 27, marking a historical moment for the sport.
International Fight Week Shaping Up as Major Combat Sports Event
The Power Slap event is scheduled to happen just one day before UFC 317, making International Fight Week a highly anticipated period for combat sports enthusiasts.
While fans await the imminent announcement of the UFC 317 main event, speculating on potential headliners, White has recently drawn attention for seemingly stepping back from some UFC responsibilities. This was highlighted by his absence from the UFC 315 post-fight press conference last Saturday, which frustrated many fans.
Currently, White manages the UFC, Power Slap, and TKO Boxing, positioning this year as a potentially crucial period for the development and success of his various combat sports ventures.
