Ring girls, also known as round card girls, are a traditional feature of combat sports such as boxing, mixed martial arts, and kickboxing. They play a crucial role in keeping the audience informed about the current round and adding to the overall entertainment of the event. In addition to holding up numbered cards, ring girls also often wear promotional outfits and participate in various promotional activities during the event.
In combat sports such as MMA, boxing, and kickboxing, ring girls are hired to hold up round cards during intervals between rounds. The purpose of the round cards is to inform the audience and judges of which round is about to begin. Some events also have ring girls participate in other promotional activities, such as holding up sponsor banners or posing for photographs with fans.
When did it all start? Las Vegas has long been known as a hub for boxing and other combat sports, and it's not surprising that the city would also be the birthplace of this tradition.
Bill Miller, a promoter in Las Vegas, is credited with coming up with the idea of using ring card girls to add a bit of glamour to combat sports events. The idea was to provide a distraction from the violence and brutality of the sport, and to make the events more entertaining and visually appealing to the audience. The concept quickly caught on and has become a staple of combat sports events around the world.
The Ring Magazine's feature on a girl holding a sign inside the ring at a boxing event in Las Vegas in 1965 popularised the practice, and it soon became a tradition at fight promotions across the country.
What are the requirements for being a ring girl?
While being a ring girl may seem like a glamorous job, it does require a lot of hard work and dedication. In addition to maintaining a fit and attractive appearance, ring girls must also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must be able to interact with the audience and fighters in a professional manner, as well as be able to handle the pressure and stress of performing in front of large crowds.
Many ring girl competitions and auditions require candidates to have prior modelling or promotional experience, as well as a certain level of physical fitness and confidence. Some organisations even provide training and coaching to help aspiring ring girls develop their skills and prepare for the role.
Fitness While it is true that fitness and physical appearance are important for ring girls, it's important to note that there is a growing movement to change the emphasis on the physical appearance of ring girls and place more value on their role in the event. Some promotions are choosing to replace ring girls with other options such as digital displays or male models, while others are choosing to highlight the intelligence, athleticism, and professionalism of their ring girls. It's important to support this shift towards a more inclusive and respectful environment for all involved in combat sports.
Skin Care When you're in the public eye and frequently being recorded, having blemish-free skin can make a big difference in your appearance. Working out can help sweat out impurities from your pores, but it's important to clean your skin as soon as possible afterwards to prevent any buildup. Staying well-hydrated is also key, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can also help promote clear skin, so avoid overly salty, sugary, or greasy foods. If you know certain foods tend to trigger breakouts, try to steer clear of those as well. Finally, be mindful of your alcohol consumption, as it can lead to skin irritation and inflammation. If you need to cleanse your skin, use a gentle, non-irritating cleanser and be sure to moisturize afterwards.
How much do ring girls get paid? The fee varies depending on which event you are working and where in the world you are working.
It's important to note that the earnings of UFC ring girls may vary based on factors such as experience, popularity, and the specific event they are working for. However, it's generally reported that UFC ring girls make between $1000 (£835) to $5000 (£4180) per fight, with the higher end of that range being for pay-per-view events. Annually, they can make between $20,000 to $50,000 (£41.7k). Some of the more popular and established ring girls, such as Arianny Celeste, have been reported to earn over $1 million per year when including their various side ventures and endorsements. Working some of the smaller events the ring girls can expect to earn around £150 ($180) upwards. Additionally, the fees paid to ring girls can vary depending on the event's budget and the negotiated contracts between the ring girl and the event organizers or agency.
How do I become a Ring Girl?
Becoming a ring girl typically involves a combination of factors such as having a fit and attractive body, a confident and outgoing personality, and some experience in modeling or promotions. Here are some general steps you can take to become a ring girl:
Get in shape: As mentioned earlier, being fit and toned is a key requirement for being a ring girl. Start working on your fitness and nutrition to achieve a healthy body weight and muscle tone.
Build modeling or promotional experience: Participate in modeling or promotional events to gain experience and confidence in front of the camera or a live audience.
Network with promoters: Attend local combat sports events and network with promoters, photographers, and other industry professionals. They may be able to refer you to a reputable agency or help you get your foot in the door.
Contact ring girl agencies: Look up reputable ring girl agencies online and contact them to inquire about their hiring process. Some popular agencies include Monster Energy Girls, Strikeforce Ring Girls, SBJ Management and UFC Octagon Girls.
Prepare for auditions: If you are invited to audition for a ring girl position, make sure to prepare thoroughly. This may involve practicing your poses and movements, selecting the right outfit and accessories, and being able to answer questions confidently.
Remember, becoming a ring girl can be a highly competitive and selective process, so be persistent and keep working on your skills and experience.
What do ring girls wear Ring girls typically wear outfits that are designed to be eye-catching and attractive, while also being comfortable to wear during long events. The outfits are usually form-fitting and often feature bright colors or bold patterns. Some common elements of ring girl clothing include:
Bikini or swimsuit-style tops and bottoms
Sports Bras and hotpants
Short skirts or shorts
High heels or other stylish footwear
Tights or leggings (optional)
Accessories such as jewelry, sunglasses, or hats
The specific outfit requirements can vary depending on the event and the organization hiring the ring girls. Some events may have specific dress codes or themes, while others may allow for more creative freedom. At Grid Girl outfits we design and create Ring Girl outfits on a weekly basis, so get in touch to discuss any requirements. We hope this blog has answered any questions you may have and we wish you the very best out there.