Paige VanZant’s long-awaited Power Slap title shot has been scrapped after a spinal epidural hematoma forced her withdrawal.
The former UFC star shared details of the frightening diagnosis on Instagram, where she admitted there’s a risk of paralysis.
VanZant was set to return to competition with Power Slap after significant time away from MMA and, more recently, the BKFC.
Paige VanZant Injury Forces Power Slap Title Fight Withdrawal
In a shocking turn of events, Paige VanZant has pulled out of her Power Slap match after being diagnosed with a spinal epidural hematoma—a rare and potentially paralyzing condition.
The former UFC strawweight contender was scheduled to headline Power Slap 8 on June 27 in Las Vegas, but her promotional title shot has now been postponed indefinitely. VanZant broke the news in a candid Instagram video, revealing the extent of her condition and the risks she now faces.
“I have what is called a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma. It actually didn’t come from training. It is a one in a million, freak, crazy injury that happened in my neck.”– Paige VanZant –
“I Could Be Paralyzed”: VanZant Opens Up About Her Diagnosis
There have been plenty of ups and downs in Paige VanZant career, who rose to fame through both her UFC performances and mainstream appearances on Dancing with the Stars before moving to Bare Knuckle FC.
A spinal epidural hematoma involves bleeding in the space between the spinal cord and surrounding bones—an extremely dangerous condition in any setting, let alone combat sports.
The fan favorite didn’t mince words about the seriousness of the injury:
“If it does get bigger, there is a chance I will be paralyzed. That’s just a reality I’ve come to accept”– Paige VanZant –
She noted that doctors warned her about the consequences of competing in her condition and confirmed that she’s pulling out of the bout “to get the treatment I need.”
UFC Veteran’s Power Slap Record Remains 2 – 0 – 1
The Paige VanZant Power Slap title shot was a marquee opportunity for the UFC-owned promotion, which continues to draw criticism for its format and safety concerns.
Her scheduled title fight against Mikael-Michelle Brown had been heavily promoted, and her sudden exit casts a shadow over the card. VanZant underwent multiple scans and medical evaluations before making the decision to withdraw.
The Paige VanZant neck injury did not happen during slap fighting training, but the risk of aggravating the condition in a Power Slap match was deemed too great.
“Basically the neurosurgeon at this point is surprised that I don’t have any neurological issues because it’s extremely serious. A lot of times people become paralyzed, start losing function of their arms and legs pretty quickly.”– Paige VanZant –
VanZant’s Injury Fuels Slap League Backlash
VanZant’s injury has reignited debates about the safety of Power Slap—a format where athletes take turns delivering and receiving open-handed blows to the face without defense.
Critics have long questioned the league’s long-term health implications, especially when it comes to head trauma and spinal injuries. Although VanZant’s condition wasn’t directly caused by slap fighting, her case illustrates how fragile the line is between sport and serious medical risk.
No Clear Return Date for Paige VanZant
VanZant has not ruled out a return to Power Slap or other forms of competition but admitted that her focus is now entirely on recovery.
The 30-year-old remains one of the most recognizable names in women’s combat sports, but her immediate future is uncertain.
“The way I feel right now, I have a feeling this is just a thing my body’s going to reabsorb the bleed. It’s not going to get worse, and I’m going to continue on with my career.”– Paige VanZant –
For now, fans and observers can only wait—and hope—that this latest setback is not a career-ending one.
Paige VanZant Injury – When the Cost of Fame is Spinal
The Paige VanZant injury has done more than cancel a title bout—it’s spotlighted the inherent risks of extreme combat sports and reminded fans that athletes carry real, lasting consequences into every fight. Whether she returns to Power Slap or takes a different path, her bravery in facing the diagnosis publicly has earned her widespread respect.
