Mackenzie Dern enters UFC 321 on October 25, 2025, with the ambition of becoming the first woman to win both an ADCC title and a UFC championship, a feat only achieved by three men, including the notable Fabricio Werdum. With an impressive background in jiu-jitsu and a strong MMA career marked by numerous victories, Dern reflects on her journey in a pre-fight press conference, expressing her desire to join Werdum among an elite group of champions, highlighting her ten-year career that culminates in this momentous fight in Abu Dhabi.
Mackenzie Dern’s ambitious journey
Mackenzie Dern enters UFC 321 on October 25, 2025 in Abu Dhabi, aiming to make history as the first woman to hold an ADCC title and a UFC championship simultaneously. This remarkable feat has only been accomplished by three men, highlighted by the legendary Fabricio Werdum, who stands alone in securing gold in the top wrestling and MMA disciplines. Dern’s journey into this rarefied air symbolizes not only her personal ambitions, but also the broader evolution of women’s martial arts.
During a pre-fight press conference, Dern expressed her ambitions, highlighting Werdum’s unparalleled legacy in the sport. He is the only athlete to have achieved victories in the prestigious IBJJF World Championship, the Abu Dhabi World Pro, the ADCC and the UFC, demonstrating versatile skills in both submission grappling and mixed martial arts. Dern’s recognition of this legacy underscores her determination to join the ranks of elite athletes and set a groundbreaking precedent in women’s MMA history.
The path of the wrestling champion
Mackenzie Dern’s wrestling pedigree matches that of her predecessors, boasting numerous prestigious accolades in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. She became ADCC champion at -60kg in 2015, becoming only the third woman ever to win this prestigious tournament. Additionally, she won the IBJJF World Championship title in both the Gi and No-Gi categories that same year, along with securing the World Pro Abu Dhabi title, positioning her as a standout athlete in wrestling history.
With gold medals at the IBJJF European Open, Pan-American Championship and Asian Open, Dern’s achievements signify her dominance in the wrestling world. As the only female black belt to achieve victories at all five major IBJJF Gi events, her credentials are a testament to her dedication and skill. As she steps up to the Octagon, the MMA community is watching intently, eager to see how her remarkable wrestling history will translate into her fight to secure a title at UFC 321 Abu Dhabi.
Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
Mackenzie Dern made her impressive UFC debut at UFC 222 in March 2018, winning her first match against Ashley Yoder via split decision. Since then, she has continued to excel inside the Octagon, with ten victories, seven of which were via submission. Her distinction as the first woman to achieve a leg-lock finish in UFC history showcases her unique skills and dedication to integrating her wrestling background into mixed martial arts.
With a remarkable 53 percent success rate, Dern’s ability to adapt her wrestling to the MMA landscape is unparalleled. As she prepares for UFC 321, anticipation is growing around her performance and potential to make history. The fight not only represents a personal milestone for Dern, but also serves as an important moment in women’s MMA history as she attempts to claim her place among the elite.
A moment of destination
Looking back on the coincidence of her journey, Dern once again spoke at the press conference about the significance of the fighting in Abu Dhabi. “I won my first world title here in Abu Dhabi on April 25, 2015 and now I’m fighting for a UFC world title on October 25, 2025 – exactly ten years later, in the same place. You can’t plan something like that. It really feels like destiny,” she said, emphasizing the deeper connection she feels with this venue and event.
This gripping timeline outlines not only a personal experience, but also a cultural moment for women’s martial arts. By joining the unique ranks of Fabricio Werdum, Dern stands on the cusp of a remarkable legacy. Achieving this dream at UFC 321 would undeniably inspire future generations of female fighters and broaden the representation of women in the sport.
The meaning of UFC 321
If Mackenzie Dern is victorious at UFC 321, it will not only cement her legacy, but redefine women’s achievements in combat sports at the same time. Joining the elite circle of athletes who have held both ADCC and UFC championships would mark a groundbreaking step forward, especially as it aims to mirror Fabricio Werdum’s extensive achievements across multiple wrestling disciplines. Such a victory would spark discussions about the evolving role and recognition of female athletes in the traditionally male-dominated sport.
Additionally, this pivotal moment may motivate other female wrestlers to pursue a career in MMA, bridging the worlds of wrestling and fighting more tangibly. As the fight approaches, excitement and anticipation are flooding the MMA community, underscoring the historic weight of this matchup. Mackenzie Dern’s pursuit of an unprecedented double championship at UFC 321 signifies not only her personal ambitions, but also the growth and evolution of women in the combat sports arena.
Conclusion
Mackenzie Dern’s upcoming fight at UFC 321 marks a potential turning point in both her career and the landscape of women’s MMA. By aiming to become the first woman to achieve dual championship status, she aims to not only take her legacy to the next level, but also to honor the groundbreaking achievements of pioneers like Fabricio Werdum. As we approach this monumental event in Abu Dhabi, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Dern as she prepares to write her name into the annals of MMA history.
In the grand story of combat sports, Mackenzie Dern UFC 321 isn’t just a fight; it is a testament to the dedication, resilience and transformative power of women in sport. Her journey encompasses the hopes of aspiring fighters and serves as a beacon of what is possible when talent meets opportunity.
Frequently asked questions
What are Mackenzie Dern’s goals for UFC 321?
At UFC 321, Dern aims to become the first woman to win a title in both the ADCC and the UFC, a historic milestone that no female fighter has achieved yet.
How does Mackenzie Dern’s wrestling background compare to Fabricio Werdum’s?
Both Dern and Werdum have impressive wrestling credentials, with Dern being the only woman to hold titles at all five major IBJJF Gi events, reflecting Werdum’s unparalleled achievements in the sport.
What did Dern say about her journey leading up to UFC 321?
Mackenzie expressed a sense of destiny and noted the importance of fighting for a UFC title exactly ten years after winning her first world title in Abu Dhabi.
How important is Dern’s submission record in the UFC?
With seven of her ten UFC wins coming by submission, Dern has shown a unique ability to effectively apply her elite wrestling skills to MMA, culminating in her historic leg-lock win.
What historical context surrounds the titles Dern is competing for?
Winning both an ADCC title and a UFC championship would put Dern in a select group of fighters, as only three men have accomplished the feat, making it a monumental goal in women’s combat sports.
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