Mackenzie Dern’s Title Fight Announcement
Mackenzie Dern found out that she would be competing for the undisputed strawweight championship through an Instagram announcement from UFC CEO Dana White, just like the rest of us.
Upcoming Match Details
On October 25, Dern will fight Virna Jandiroba for the vacant strawweight title as part of UFC 321’s co-main event. This match is a rematch of their 2020 bout, which Dern won by unanimous decision. Fans have anticipated this opportunity for Dern, who has been seen as a likely UFC champion since she joined the organization in 2016. Although Dern felt confident about a title fight, she didn’t realize it would be for the undisputed title until White’s Instagram announcement.
Dern’s Initial Expectations
Speaking to Yahoo Sports, Dern said, “[The UFC] was discussing the interim belt a few weeks ago, but nothing was set in stone. We were waiting for an official announcement. I found out through Instagram when Dana announced it was for the actual belt.”
Reaction and Change of Plans
Dern texted her manager, Tiki Ghosn, for clarification on whether it was for the interim title or the undisputed championship. “He confirmed it was for the real belt,” Dern shared. They had been satisfied with the interim title, but the chance to fight for the undisputed belt has made the opportunity even more thrilling.
Title Context
Dern is stepping into this title match because long-time champion Zhang Weili vacated the belt to challenge flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko. While it remains uncertain whether the UFC would have let Weili retain her title, Dern acknowledges that if Weili returns to strawweight, she will undoubtedly be in contention for the belt again.
Dern’s Confidence and Preparation
Currently ranked No. 5 in the UFC strawweight division and riding a two-fight winning streak, Dern is confident about facing Jandiroba again. “I have no doubt that I can do it again,” she stated. She plans to improve on her previous performance and is aware that Jandiroba, too, will bring new tactics to the fight.
Fight Night Details
UFC 321 will take place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, featuring a headline match between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title.
