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American mixed martial artist Zac Pauga fights in the light heavyweight class of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He was a finalist in Season 30 of The Ultimate Fighter and a former professional football player. He is renowned for his strength, tenacity, and hitting prowess. Here are some background information and career high points.
What is Zac Pauga’s net worth?
Mixed martial artist Zac Pauga fights for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the heavyweight class. He is estimated to be worth $700,000.
Pauga receives money from a variety of sources, including his social media following, sponsorship agreements, pay-per-view bonuses from the UFC, and his bout purse. With more than 5,000 followers, he shares updates about his training and matches along with sponsored items on his Instagram account.
Pauga made some money as a Colorado police officer and an NFL player for the Denver Broncos prior to turning pro in mixed martial arts.
Childhood and Football Career:
On February 25, 1988, in Denver, Colorado, Zac Pauga was born. He played a variety of sports as a child, but football was always his favorite. Pauga was a standout player for Mullen High School, playing both linebacker and running back. He played a major role in his team’s run of three consecutive state championships from 2004 to 2006.
Later, Pauga played collegiate football at Colorado State University, where he was a standout fullback and special teams player. During his four years on the varsity team, he was selected captain in his last campaign. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2010.
Pauga attempted to seek a career in the NFL upon graduation. As an undrafted free agent, he signed with the Houston Texans in 2011, however he was cut before the season began. After that, he had brief experiences with the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs, but he was never added to the active roster.
Change to an Amateur and MMA Career
Pauga switched to mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2012 after being inspired to do so by watching UFC matches on television. He joined Elevation Fight Team in Denver, where he trained under coaches Curtis Blaydes, Neil Magny, and Cory Sandhagen.
After making his amateur debut in 2019, Pauga has won six straight fights by stoppage. He took down three opponents in a single evening to win the SCL King of Sparta Flyweight Tournament in February 2020. He triumphed in mixed martial arts, boxing, and kickboxing.
Career in Profession and The Ultimate Fighter
Four more wins followed Pauga’s July 2020 professional debut. He showed off his adaptability and toughness by winning via submission, knockout, and decision. He participated in LFA and Cage Warriors competitions as well.
Pauga participated in The Ultimate Fighter Season 30, a reality show where mixed martial arts fighters vie for a contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, in 2022. The audience was amazed by Pauga’s prowess as a fighter who trained with former UFC champion Stipe Miocic. His two exhibition bouts concluded with technical knockouts, advancing him to the light heavyweight championship round.
UFC Premiere & Prospects
On August 6, 2022, Pauga made his MMA debut on UFC on ESPN 40. His opponent was Mohammed Usman, brother of UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. Pauga’s career losing streak started when he was eliminated in the second round.
On February 18, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 219, Pauga overcame Jordan Wright via majority decision following a loss. He took just 36 hits while landing 110, demonstrating his skill as a striker and his defensive prowess.
Pauga last participated in a UFC on ESPN 47 event on June 17, 2023. He got to know fierce attacker and former Cage Warriors champion Modestas Bukauskas. Pauga lost by unanimous decision during a hard and challenging struggle that established a record for the most significant strikes delivered in a light heavyweight match (248).
Pauga is ranked number fifteen among light heavyweights in the UFC right now. Young and driven, he has lots of time to improve and advance in his career. He was dubbed “The Ripper” for his vicious and relentless fighting technique. His endearing personality and sincere friendliness have won him over many admirers. In the light heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Pauga is a bright future fighter.
Is Zac Pauga married?
After 18 years of dating, Zac and Jess Pauga are a married pair. They got married on March 28, 2014, having first met in high school. Together with their two kids, Moana and Jango, they reside in Lakewood, Colorado. Zac is a heavyweight professional mixed martial artist, while Jess works as a corporate executive and marketing specialist.
Throughout his sporting career, Jess has been Zac’s supportive partner, encouraging him during games and aiding in his recuperation from injuries. She also donates her time and money to a number of charities and issues as a philanthropist. Successful and in love, Zac and Jess manage their personal and professional lives in harmony.
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Siblings & Parents:
First-generation American of Samoan descent is Zac Pauga. His father is a Samoan immigrant who moved to the US in quest of a better life.
The public is unaware of the identity or name of his father. Since no one has ever stated his mother’s name or identity, she remains a mystery as well. Pauga has two siblings: Tea-Kenji Pauga-Lanciaux, a sister, and Justin Pauga, an elder brother.