American UFC fighter Paige VanZant has posted pictures from her latest bikini shoot to show fans she can be 'beauty' as well as 'the beast'.

The 25-year-old gave fans a sneak preview of the Sports Illustrated snaps on Puerto Vallarta beach in Mexico saying, despite her persona in the ring, she's not afraid to show how 'girly' she really is.

VanZant, who is married to fellow fighter Austin Vanderford, returned to the ring last month following a year-long break and, in her most recent fight, claimed a victory over Rachael Ostovich.

She has also worked as a model and made appearances on Dancing with the Stars and Chopped.

Speaking to Sports Illustrated, she revealed how she was shocked when she got the call to do the shoot but wanted to show fans that beauty and being a 'badass' are not mutually exclusive.

She said: "I have constantly been having to prove to the world and UFC fans that you can be beautiful and a badass at the same time. Well, now it’s my moment to shine.

“This is my way of not holding anything back. I want people to know that you don’t have to choose. You do not have to label yourself as one thing because that’s what surrounds you. I’m not scared any more to show how girly I am.

"To go from an amazing UFC finish win in January, to shooting for 'Sports Illustrated Swimsuit' magazine could not be more of a dream come true," she added.