Former UFC fighter Paige VanZant is no longer with AEW, despite still being listed on the company’s roster page.
Dave Meltzer reported on today’s edition of Wrestling Observer Radio that VanZant decided she didn’t want to pursue a career in wrestling anymore, and if she did want to continue, she would still be with AEW.
VanZant signed with AEW in March 2022 and made her in-ring debut at that year’s Double Or Nothing pay-per-view event, where she teamed up with Men Of The Year to defeat Frankie Kazarian, Sammy Guevara, and Tay Conti.
In December 2022, it was reported that VanZant was dealing with a foot injury.
AEW President Tony Khan later stated that VanZant’s appearance in the company “wasn’t a one-off.”
Additionally, there has been no news about VanZant competing in wrestling since May 2023 when she contacted Gangrel about training again.
Former UFC fighter Paige VanZant has officially parted ways with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), despite still being listed on the company’s roster page. This surprising development was reported by Dave Meltzer on a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio. According to Meltzer, VanZant made the decision to step away from a career in wrestling, and if she had chosen to continue, she would still be a part of AEW.
VanZant joined AEW in March 2022 and made her in-ring debut at that year’s Double Or Nothing pay-per-view event. She teamed up with Men Of The Year to secure a victory against Frankie Kazarian, Sammy Guevara, and Tay Conti. However, in December 2022, it was revealed that VanZant was dealing with a foot injury, which likely impacted her participation in subsequent matches.
AEW President Tony Khan had previously emphasized that VanZant’s involvement with the company was not a one-time occurrence, indicating that she was expected to have a more long-term presence. However, since May 2023, there has been no news or updates regarding VanZant’s potential return to wrestling. It is worth noting that during this period, VanZant reached out to Gangrel, a renowned professional wrestler, for further training.
VanZant’s departure from AEW raises questions about her future in combat sports and whether she will explore other avenues outside of the octagon. As a former UFC fighter, VanZant gained popularity for her impressive skills and charismatic personality. Her transition to professional wrestling was met with enthusiasm from fans who were eager to see her showcase her athleticism and adaptability in a new setting.
While it is unclear why VanZant decided to leave AEW, it is not uncommon for athletes to reassess their career paths and make changes based on personal preferences or opportunities that arise. As fans await further updates on VanZant’s next move, it remains to be seen whether she will return to the world of combat sports or explore different avenues altogether.
In the meantime, AEW will need to adjust its roster and plans accordingly, as VanZant’s departure leaves a void in their lineup. The company has a history of bringing in talented individuals from various backgrounds, and it will be interesting to see who they recruit to fill the gap left by VanZant’s departure.
Overall, Paige VanZant’s decision to leave AEW marks a significant turning point in her career and leaves fans wondering what lies ahead for the talented fighter. As the wrestling and combat sports communities eagerly await updates on her next move, one thing is certain – VanZant’s impact and legacy in both UFC and AEW will not be forgotten.