Rare photos of Aspen Ladd and her boyfriend, Jim West

Aspen Ladd is a female MMA fighter who has fought in the UFC amongst other professional promotions. She began training martial arts around 14 years old, and even dropped out of college to pursue her career. Since then, she has enjoyed success in the cage and is known for her dogged determination and grit.

Interestingly, she is also in a long-term relationship with her main MMA coach, Jim West. The pair have been together for a while and although he’s her coach, he is also dating her. This isn’t the first time that a similar setup has happened in the MMA world either, with UFC champion Rose Namajunas also using her husband Pat Berry as her main coach.

Interestingly, less is known about Jim West – but we can assume he’s a skilled martial artist. Jim West is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, whilst also owning his own Gold MMA gym. In short, he’s been around martial arts for years so probably knows a fair amount on the subject. Here’s some lesser known pictures of Aspen Ladd and her coach-turned-boyfriend.

Aspen Ladd in the cage with her coach, Jim West.

The couple embrace after a UFC victory for Ladd.

Coach Jim West with Aspen Ladd.

In one UFC bout, Jim West controversially gave strict advice to Ladd in between rounds.

Before a fight, Jim West wraps Aspen Ladd’s hands.

Aspen Ladd and her coaching team, backstage at a UFC event.

Aspen Ladd earlier on in her younger days.

A smiling Aspen Ladd with coach Jim West during a training session.