History will be made on June 27 at Power Slap 13 during International Fight Week as Mikael Michelle Brown faces Paige VanZant in the rematch for the first-ever Power Slap Women’s Championship, powered by Headrush.
Brown, who lost a close match to VanZant earlier this year, is embracing her second chance with full focus and newfound confidence.
“This is the most excited I’ve ever been,” Brown told Slap News. “The last one was big—but this is for everything. I get to redeem myself and compete to become the first-ever women’s champion.”
Three Months Later: A Whole New Fighter
Brown says her life has completely changed since her last fight.
“Three months ago, I was a full-time waitress trying to cut weight,” she recalled. “Now, I get to do this full-time. I’m already on weight, so I’m not stressing about that anymore. I’ve grown a lot.”
And that growth includes experience under the lights.
“Fighting in front of a live audience for the first time gave me even more love for the sport,” Brown said. “Feeling that energy—feeding off it—was incredible. Now I know what to expect.”
Confidence Through Impact
In their first bout, Brown gained composure with each round—and each hit.
“People ask me if I really love it, because I looked into the crowd and said I did. And I meant it,” she said. “Getting hit by someone like Paige—who I respect so much—only boosted my confidence.”
“Every time she hit me and I didn’t wobble, I felt more ready. And now I know I can take her power.”
Brown admits her technique wasn’t perfect the first time, especially on one of her slaps that landed with mostly fingers.
“This time, I’m making sure I connect with my full hand,” she said. “You can have all the power in the world, but if you’re only hitting with fingertips, it won’t do enough. I’ve been drilling that every day.”
Respect, Rivalry, and Redemption
Despite the intensity of the competition, Brown says there’s mutual respect between her and VanZant.
“We’re cool—we pass each other at the Apex, say hey,” she explained. “But we both want to knock each other out. Not out of hate, but because we want that belt. Unfortunately for her, she’s standing in my way.”
She admits Paige had the crowd edge in their first match.
“She was so confident in front of the audience. Meanwhile, I was nervous,” Brown said. “This time, I know I can perform. That edge is going to be smaller.”
Where Brown Holds the Edge
Brown believes her ability to absorb strikes without flinching or stumbling will carry her deep into the championship rounds.
“I’ve never been wobbled or flinched. That’s huge when you get into round four or five,” she said. “If it goes deep, I’m going to be the one standing strong.”
And while VanZant may still hold an edge in showmanship, Brown says the improvements in her preparation, defense, and mental game will shift the momentum this time.
Why Fans Should Watch
Asked why new fans should tune in or attend live, Brown didn’t hesitate.
“The energy inside the Fontainebleau is insane,” she said. “You’ll see knockouts. You’ll see history. You’ll see two tough women fighting for a championship. It’s straight action the whole time.”
A Message for Paige VanZant
Looking directly into the camera, Brown delivered a clear message for her opponent:
“Paige VanZant, girl—I’m coming, and I’m getting it back. It’s lick-back season, and I am so ready.”
Stay tuned to Slap News for more exclusive interviews and coverage leading up to Power Slap 13. Don’t miss the action live from Las Vegas—tickets are on sale now!