7 Incredible Photos of UFC Fighter Paige VanZant in Mexico

Wrestler, boxer and mixed martial artist Paige VanZant was featured in the SI Swimsuit Issue in 2019. The 28-year-old former UFC fighter is currently signed to All Elite Wrestling and Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. She has been on a break from competing to heal a foot fracture, but plans on returning to competition this spring. 

As a kid, VanZant says she dreamed of being a dirt bike racer, dancer, firefighter and model. Her appearance in the SI Swimsuit Issue four years ago was her first major modeling moment, and it was everything she had hoped it would be.

“I was unbelievably shocked that SI Swimsuit called and asked if I would be a part of their magazine. I have constantly been having to prove to the world and UFC fans that you can be beautiful and a bad ass at the same time. Well, now it’s my moment to shine,” she said. “This is my way of not holding anything back. I want people to know that you don’t have to choose. You do not have to label yourself as one thing because that’s what surrounds you. I’m not scared anymore to show how girly I am..”

Here are seven incredible photos from VanZant’s 2019 photo shoot with photographer Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by Cali Dreaming.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by TeenyB Bikini Couture.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by Cali Dreaming.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by AExAE.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by Haus of PinkLemonaid.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by TeenyB Bikini Couture.

Paige VanZant was photographed by Walter Chin in Puerto Vallarta. Swimsuit by MAKARI.