Paige VanZant details rape in new book, UFC star opens up for first time
UFC flyweight fighter Paige VanZant has a new book coming out on Tuesday and her story is one that needs to be shared. The professional mixed martial artist opens up about being the victim of rape and bullying during her high school years.
In VanZant’s memoir, “Rise: Surviving the Fight of My Life,” the 24-year old fighter says that that several boys got her drunk at a party and raped her when she could not defend herself.
“They move me around,” VanZant wrote. They change my position. I fail each time I try to resist, my limbs like wet cement on my body, my brain a heavy fog. I am awake and conscious, but my body feels dead. I know what is happening but can do nothing to stop it. I have no voice or choice but to submit and pray that it ends soon.”
Following the horrific ordeal she was bullied to no end. VanZant’s birth name was Paige Sletten which prompted the mean spirited students to call her “Paige Slutton,” and that’s when she changed her name.
VanZant told MMA Fighting in a phone interview Monday that she wanted to open up for multiple reasons, especially the fact that she can be an advocate for those who have been the victims of sexual assault and bullying like she was.
“A huge reason I’m getting the book out is because I want to be an advocate for anti-bullying, I want to be an advocate,” she said.
VanZant also uncovers the history of an abusive relationship that resulted with her being arrested and charged with a DUI.
You can purchase VanZant’s new book from Amazon here:
Paige is currently recovering from a broken arm sustained during her January loss to Jessica-Rose Clark at UFC Fight Night 124. No announcement has been made as to when the UFC star will return to competition.
