Mackenzie Dern: UFC Strawweight Champion and Jiu-Jitsu Career
Mackenzie Dern won the UFC strawweight title in 2025 and defended it against Gillian Robertson at UFC 330 in 2026.
World-class grappling background
Raised in a Brazilian jiu-jitsu family, Mackenzie Dern became one of the sport’s most accomplished grapplers before turning to MMA. Her transition brought elite guard work and submission threats to the UFC strawweight division, while she continued to develop her boxing and takedown entries.
UFC rise and championship breakthrough
Dern made her UFC debut in 2018 and progressed through a competitive strawweight field. She earned a championship opportunity against Virna Jandiroba at UFC 321 in October 2025 and won the vacant title by unanimous decision. Dern followed with a successful defense over Gillian Robertson at UFC 330 in August 2026.
Dern’s defining strength remains her ability to threaten submissions from multiple positions. Her title run also reflects the broader evolution of her game, as improved striking has helped her create entries and compete effectively over five rounds.
