Elle Brooke slams Paige VanZant for refusing to promote their fight; VanZant says she’s not an ‘influencer’

Elle Brooke's upcoming fight with Paige VanZant has sparked controversy and tension, with both fighters expressing their views on the promotional aspect of the event.

Elle Brooke slams Paige VanZant for refusing to promote their fight; VanZant  says she's not an 'influencer' - MMA Fighting

Brooke has been vocal about her frustration with VanZant's lack of engagement in promoting their fight, while VanZant has defended her approach, emphasizing her focus on training and preparation.

Brooke's dissatisfaction stems from VanZant's reluctance to participate in promoting the fight through social media and interviews.

Despite Brooke's efforts to generate interest by creating provocative content, including a photoshopped image of VanZant dog-walking her husband, she received little response from her opponent. This lack of engagement has left Brooke feeling undervalued and overlooked in the buildup to the event.

In contrast, VanZant has maintained that her primary focus is on training for the fight, highlighting her dedication to the sport and her commitment to delivering a strong performance in the ring.

She has expressed that her approach to promotion differs from that of influencers and emphasized her role as a professional fighter.

The disagreement between the two fighters extends to their perspectives on the nature of the event itself. Brooke has questioned VanZant's decision to transition from competing in organizations like the UFC and BKFC to facing an influencer in a boxing match.

She has raised concerns about the motivations behind such a move, suggesting that it may be driven by financial incentives rather than a genuine passion for the sport.

VanZant, on the other hand, has defended her decision to participate in the event, asserting that she views Brooke as a professional fighter and a worthy opponent. She has expressed disappointment at Brooke's self-identification as an influencer, emphasizing her belief in Brooke's capabilities as a skilled boxer.

The clash of perspectives between Brooke and VanZant reflects broader debates within the combat sports community regarding the intersection of athleticism, promotion, and commercialization.

The evolving landscape of combat sports, including the emergence of influencer-driven events like Misfits Boxing, has prompted discussions about the role of promotion in fighters' careers and the shifting dynamics of audience engagement.

As the date of the main event approaches, the tension between Brooke and VanZant continues to simmer, underscoring the complexities of navigating promotional expectations in the context of evolving sporting platforms.

The clash between traditional athletic competition and contemporary promotional strategies exemplifies the multifaceted nature of professional fighting and the diverse approaches taken by athletes as they navigate the intersection of sport and entertainment.