Paige VanZant’s return to the octagon appears to be drawing nearer. The UFC strawweight had her arm cast removed Monday, and said she’s hopeful to compete sooner than later.
VanZant (8-4 MMA, 5-3 UFC) has been out of action since a January 2019 submission victory over Rachael Ostovich due to a series of injuries. She had a pre-existing arm injury that she carried into the fight, and it was worsened in the contest despite her coming out with the win.
She’s since tried to get back in the cage, but she experienced further setbacks that have required additional surgeries and recovery time. At long last, though, she seems ready to resume her career (via Instagram):
CAST IS OFF 100%!!!! LET’S FREAKING GO!!!! Training is in full effect (in my garage with my husband) lol First thing first, let’s heal the world, after that I’m coming to fight. 👊🏻
VanZant was supposed to fight Amanda Ribas at UFC on ESPN+ 28, which took place March 14 in Brasilia, Brazil. She was forced to withdraw from the bout, which was the last on her current UFC contract.
There’s been no secret from VanZant that she is looking to explore free agency once her deal is complete. She said she wants to test her market value, and there’s been speculation she could join her husband, middleweight Austin Vanderford, in Bellator.
First, though, VanZant must book a next UFC fight. With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic keeping the UFC schedule in limbo, it remains to be seen when that will happen.
