Sidney Thomas, the ring girl who became an overnight sensation during the November 2024 Battle of Mike Tyson versus Jake Paul, reflects on her “unexpected whirlwind of fame” as she graduates from college this Wednesday.
The 21-year-old shared on Instagram that she completed her bachelor’s degree in just three years at the University of Alabama, which came with its share of ups and downs, including the passing of her mother.
“I did it in 3 years at @Univofalabama,” Thomas posted. “Looking back at my college journey, I see how each of these years has molded me. From coping with my mother’s loss to navigating sudden fame, Alabama has been a constant in my life.”
“My time at university was anything but ordinary. I think there’s a certain beauty in the unexpected—it all unfolded according to its own timing, perhaps,” she added.
“This chapter of my life has been beautiful. I find myself reflecting on it often; it’s bittersweet to wrap things up a year early. Still, I know Alabama will always hold a special place in my heart, no matter where I end up.”
One of her photos shows her in a red dress while enjoying a bottle of champagne.
In other pictures, she is seen celebrating with friends.
A St. Louis native, Thomas explained that she had enrolled in online classes at Alabama to accommodate her travel schedule.
She skyrocketed to fame during the Paul-Tyson event, which took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on November 15, 2024.
After gaining significant attention, Thomas secured brand collaborations and interviews. She celebrated hitting one million followers on TikTok following the fight, and later signed with a creative agency.
Previously, she mentioned that she was discovered by Paul’s company through her social media presence.
