UFC 321 Womens Strawweight Title Fight Features Mackenzie Dern, Virna Jandiroba in Abu Dhabi

Mackenzie Dern is set to fight Virna Jandiroba for the vacant UFC Women's Strawweight Championship at UFC 321, a title opportunity that Dern describes as not only an athletic achievement but a life victory, especially meaningful as she hopes to raise her daughter with the belt. Dern's journey has been marked by significant challenges including pregnancy, injuries, and personal struggles, yet her resilience and Brazilian jiu-jitsu expertise have positioned her for this pivotal moment. Despite her decorated BJJ background and ranking among the UFC's best submission artists, some in the MMA community, like coach Din Thomas, have controversially labeled the title fight as one of the least significant in recent UFC history due to lack of mainstream excitement. Dern, who previously avenged a loss to Amanda Ribas and has a history of success against Jandiroba, views the fight as a culmination of years of effort and growth both professionally and personally. Her fight in Abu Dhabi also marks a full-circle moment, recalling her past triumphs in the city, including a major jiu-jitsu upset a decade prior. The matchup highlights the ongoing evolution in Dern's striking and overall game as she pursues her first UFC championship.