3. Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant is the UFC's new "IT" girl, the heir-apparent in popularity when ever Ronda Rousey makes her exit from the sport of MMA. It doesn't matter that she's not yet a champion: her model good looks, sweet nature, and determination combine into a winning package that has generated a ton of mainstream media interest. Not to mention she has been incredibly successful thus far, winning all of her UFC fights (and pro MMA fights) to date. Next up, she'll headline a Fight Night event against Rose Namajuanas, a former title hopeful looking to win a crack at the belt again, this December. VanZant will be firmly entrenched in the UFC for the next couple of years. She's only 21 however, and has a lot of time ahead of her. Fighting may not be something she wants to do into her thirties, and if she gets rushed into a title shot quick, she could burn out just as quick. A pro wrestling stint - even just on a cameo level at first, as with Rousey - could be very beneficial for Paige, who has everything it takes to be not just a UFC star, but a star, period.
Jay Anderson
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Primarily covering the sport of MMA from Ontario, Canada, Jay Anderson has been writing for various publications covering sports, technology, and pop culture since 2001. Jay holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Guelph, and a Certificate in Leadership Skills from Humber College.
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