WNBA star Sophie Cunningham is brushing off the haters after turning heads—and raising eyebrows—with a surprise gig as a ring girl at UFC 329 in Las Vegas. The Indiana Fever guard, who stunned fans by walking around the Octagon during the high-profile fight night, is defending her decision loud and clear.
Speaking about the experience, Cunningham made it plain: she loved every minute of it. 'I had a blast,' she said, standing firm against the wave of criticism that followed her appearance at the T-Mobile Arena on Saturday evening.
The backlash came fast from some corners of the WNBA fanbase. Social media lit up with comments accusing Cunningham of 'devaluing' the league she plays for. One fan wrote, 'Yes Sophie, continue to devalue the sport you play professionally,' while another simply called the move 'yuck.' But the 2026 All-Star isn't letting the noise get to her.
UFC President Dana White was all praise for Cunningham, revealing how the impromptu gig came together. 'I love Sophie Cunningham, man,' White said. 'We have created a relationship, and she was here tonight. When she walked in she goes, “Oh I want to walk around that (Octagon).” I said, “Then, you’re going to walk around it.” She is fun.' It's that kind of spontaneous energy that Cunningham says made the night unforgettable.
Some fans argued that the UFC did a better job marketing the WNBA than the league itself. But Cunningham sees the opportunity differently—as a chance to cross-promote and have some fun. She's been known for her vibrant personality both on and off the court, and this isn't the first time she's made waves for her bold moves. Earlier this year, she turned heads with a sizzling Vegas swimsuit look that had fans talking.
Cunningham's stance is clear: she's grateful for the chance to step outside the WNBA bubble. 'I was blessed for the opportunity,' she emphasized, making it known that she stands by her choice despite the critics. The Indiana guard isn't shying away from her love for combat sports, and she's not about to apologize for enjoying a night in the spotlight.
This isn't the first time a female athlete has faced scrutiny for taking on a role in a different sport. The debate echoes similar conversations around Carli Lloyd shutting down trolls for her appearance during pregnancy, or even the broader discussion about how athletes monetize their brand. For Cunningham, the ring girl gig was just another way to connect with fans and have a good time.
As for what's next? Don't expect Cunningham to slow down. Whether she's draining threes for the Fever or making a cameo at a UFC event, she's proving she's not afraid to be herself—critics be damned. The WNBA season may be her main stage, but for one night in Vegas, she was right where she wanted to be.
