Sophie Cunningham draws mixed reactions over UFC move

Indiana Fever guard Cunningham decided to take another side quest. She made a stunning appearance in the co-main event of UFC 329 on Saturday in Las Vegas.

Right before the lightweight match between ranked contenders Paddy Pimblett and Benoit Saint Denis, Cunningham served as a ring girl.

This surprised everyone, as she added another unexpected public appearance, crossing over to combat sports. Hater Report’s X account posted the video of the 6-foot-1 guard during the event.

The former Missouri standout was wearing a black, form-fitting tank top and shorts. She was barefoot as she held up the round card.

Sophie Cunningham is a ring girl at UFC 329! pic.twitter.com/aJ1rOUWgoa

— Hater Report (@HaterReport) July 12, 2026

Cunningham was among the fans who witnessed Pimblett’s incredible performance, as he submitted Saint Denis in just 52 seconds in the opening round.

“The Baddy” locked in an early D’Arce choke against “God of War,” effectively countering the Frenchman’s takedown attempt. Pimblett locked in the submission technique tight until Saint Denis was unconscious.

Fans react to Sophie Cunningham’s octagon appearance

Although it was a lighthearted crossover for Cunningham, fans seem to have mixed reactions to her cameo on the biggest stage in professional MMA.

Cunningham received both positive and negative reactions to her latest move.

“I guess she’s gonna keep milking that finger point thing” a fan said.

“Sophie’s popularity has spread across the galaxy!” read a comment.

“Sorry, but is she supposed to be impressive?” a user stated.

“@sophaller you are an absolute legend! That was hilarious!” another fan added.

“Middest of the mid tbh,” claimed a user.

“Sophie Cunningham keeps finding ways to surprise people. Going from the WNBA spotlight to being a ring girl at UFC 329 definitely wasn’t on my bingo card this year. ” a user pointed out.

“You ain’t that pretty for all that,” another fan proclaimed.

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham against the Dallas Wings.

The former second-round draft pick is maximizing her time in Las Vegas. The Fever are scheduled to face the Las Vegas Aces on Sunday at the Michelob ULTRA Arena to end their four-game road trip.