See the Details: Paige Vanzant's Playboy Sweden Cover and Green Lingerie Feature
The response to the Swedish publication highlighted lingering divisions within combat sports fandom. Hardcore mixed martial arts purists often express disappointment when ranked athletes move away from title contention into digital modeling. Commentators on mixed martial arts forums argued that her fighting career had been eclipsed by curated content.
Yet fellow fighters have offered a radically different reaction. High-profile athletes, including former champions across multiple promotions, have publicly commended VanZant's business acumen. With the median mixed martial arts career lasting fewer than six years and carrying risks of chronic injury, securing lifelong financial security before age 32 represents an undeniable victory. VanZant did not leave fighting because she lacked competitive spirit; she diversified because the promotion model failed to match her market value.