Austin Vanderford and Paige VanZant represent one of the most prominent partnerships in modern mixed martial arts. Individually, each has built a distinctive career in combat sports; together.
Austin Vanderford
Austin Vanderford moved as an infant to Ninilchik, Alaska, where he began wrestling in high school. He claimed back-to-back Alaska State Wrestling Championships in 2006 and 2007 before earning an NAIA national title at Southern Oregon University in 2012. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree, he spent two years coaching at his alma mater. Vanderford turned professional in MMA in 2017, compiling an undefeated 6–0 record on the regional circuit before signing with Bellator MMA.