Paige VanZant: A Slow Rise to Triumph

Paige VanZant picked up another win inside the octagon Saturday night at UFC 191. That makes it three straight with zero losses for the UFC strawweight who continues to impress and improves her overall record to 6-1. As raw as she is her athletic prowess, grit, aggression, and explosive power make her an overwhelming presence in the only other women’s division in the UFC. What is so great about this developing fighter is with every outing she is showing improved marks in skill and technique.

She’s been so impressive that fans and media have begun making comparisons between her and women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey. And, after her victory via armbar over Alex Chambers, the comparisons have only gained more fuel. She’s an interesting prospect in a division that continues to build interest with every passing event. In my opinion, the women’s strawweight division is quickly catching up to the heels of the women’s bantamweight division. The women are quicker, more aggressive, and they have fuel for days.

VanZant vs. Chambers was the perfect example; a fight showcasing aggression, grit, speed, and pace with a touch of skill and technique. In this sport it’s a perfect recipe for attracting the hardcore and causal fan. On one end you have a hungry and aggressive competitor who won’t stop and on the opposite you have a survivor who will continue until she physically can’t push any longer.

Many of the ladies in this division define just that and there is no better representation than VanZant to carry the flag. While, you have women like champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk and contenders Claudia Gadelha and Valerie Letourneau, there is something special about VanZant. She has an “appeal” that transcends your average mixed martial arts fans.

Yet, the UFC is wise to tread the waters lightly, on tippy toes. As good as VanZant seems, she is far from the level Ronda Rousey currently occupies. And, thankfully, the UFC recognizes this. At least we should hope.

12 Gauge has been feed relatively easy-to-catch prey. She hasn’t been dipped into the deep waters just yet and for good reason. Albeit, the young prospect shows loads of talent and promise, she is nowhere near the level of Joanna Jedrzejczyk or Claudia Gadelha. While, she would bully those two early on, they would eventually pick the young lioness apart through superior technique and determination.

While, VanZant needs a step up in competition, she doesn’t need to be swimming with sharks just yet. The UFC should continue VanZant’s steady rise in the ranks. She currently sits at No. 6, but should avoid anyone ranked above her, for the moment. Her clinch is strong and her grappling, primarily her transitions and scrambles, is impressive. However, her striking is still at a rudimentary level and her defense is novice at best. Make no mistake, VanZant is extremely hittable and her scrambles, while impressive, leave her vulnerable at times.

Though her technical expertise has grown she still has serious holes in her game she must cover before she pushes for the title.

Throw her in with Jessica Penne and she might struggle to find her pace with the kickboxer; and, if things hit the mat, 12 Gauge could find herself in a submission during a scramble. While, Penne is beatable against VanZant, the risk of derailing the hype train is there and unnecessary at the moment. Rose Namajunas would pose the same risk while Carla Esparza would have the wrestling ability to hold VanZant down and grind out a decision.

And, as stated above, Jedrzejczyk and Gadehla would smash VanZant’s face in and rearrange her looks. Climbing the short ladder step by step to the top is the best route plain and simple. Let’s soak in the beautiful rays of VanZant and patiently watch her steadily rise to the top. Fights with the likes of Randa Markos (who I feel is the best option), Maryna Moroz, or even Joanne Calderwood make better sense.

A few winnable fights keeps the hype alive and allows VanZant to gain experience while improving her skills and technique. While, some may feel it’s time to throw VanZant in the shark tank, she is still a win or two away from taking a dive in deep water. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.