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 submission victories, Dern reflects on her journey at a pre-fight press conference, expressing her desire to join Werdum in an elite group of champions, highlighting her ten-year career culminating in this momentous fight in Abu Dhabi.
Mackenzie Dern’s Ambitious Journey
Mackenzie Dern enters UFC 321 on October 25, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, with the goal of making history as the first woman to simultaneously hold an ADCC title and a UFC championship. This remarkable feat has only been accomplished by three men, notably highlighted by the legendary Fabricio Werdum, who stands alone in securing gold across the premier grappling and MMA disciplines. Dern’s journey into this rarefied air not only signifies her personal ambitions but also the broader evolution of women’s combat sports.
During a pre-fight press conference, Dern expressed her aspirations, emphasizing Werdum’s unmatched legacy in the sport. He is the only athlete to clinch victories in the prestigious IBJJF World Championship, the Abu Dhabi World Pro, the ADCC, and the UFC, showcasing a versatile skill set in both submission grappling and mixed martial arts. Dern’s recognition of this legacy underlines her determination to join the ranks of elite athletes and set a groundbreaking precedent in MMA women’s history.
The Path of the Grappling Champion
Mackenzie Dern’s grappling pedigree matches that of her predecessors, boasting numerous prestigious accolades in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. She emerged as the ADCC Champion at -60 kg in 2015, becoming only the third woman ever to win this prestigious tournament. Furthermore, she achieved the IBJJF World Championship title in both Gi and No-Gi categories that same year, along with securing the World Pro Abu Dhabi title, positioning her as a standout athlete in grappling history.
With gold medals from the IBJJF European Open, Pan-American Championship, and Asian Open, Dern’s accomplishments signify her dominance in the grappling world. As the only female black belt to secure victories across all five major IBJJF Gi events, her credentials stand as a testament to her dedication and skill. As she transitions to the Octagon, the MMA community watches intently, eager to see how her remarkable grappling history will translate in her fight to secure a title at UFC 321 Abu Dhabi.
Transitioning to Mixed Martial Arts
Mackenzie Dern made her impactful UFC debut at UFC 222 in March 2018, winning her first match against Ashley Yoder by split decision. Since then, she has continued to excel within the Octagon, boasting ten victories, with seven of these wins accomplished via submission. Her distinction as the first female to achieve a leg-lock finish in UFC history showcases her unique skill set and commitment to integrating her grappling background into mixed martial arts.
With a remarkable submission success rate of 53 percent, Dern’s ability to adapt her grappling to the MMA landscape is unparalleled. As she prepares for UFC 321, the anticipation builds around her performance and potential to make history. The fight not only represents a personal milestone for Dern but also serves as a significant moment in MMA women’s history, as she seeks to claim her place among the elite.
A Moment of Destiny
Reflecting on the confluence of her journey, Dern spoke at the press conference about the significance of fighting in Abu Dhabi once more. “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 location and event.
This poignant timeline frames not just a personal experience but a cultural moment for women’s combat sports. By aiming to join the unique ranks of Fabricio Werdum, Dern stands on the precipice 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 Significance of UFC 321
If Mackenzie Dern triumphs at UFC 321, it will not only solidify her legacy but concurrently redefine women’s achievements in combat sports. Joining the elite circle of athletes who have held both ADCC and UFC championships would mark a pioneering step forward, particularly as she aims to mirror Fabricio Werdum’s extensive accomplishments across multiple grappling disciplines. Such a win would ignite discussions about the evolving role and recognition of female athletes in the traditionally male-dominated sport.
Furthermore, this pivotal moment may motivate other women grapplers to pursue careers in MMA, bridging the worlds of grappling and fighting more tangibly. As the fight approaches, excitement and anticipation weave through the MMA community, underscoring the historical weight of this matchup. Mackenzie Dern’s pursuit of an unparalleled dual championship at UFC 321 signifies not only her personal aspirations but also the growth and evolution of women in the arena of combat sports.
Conclusion
Mackenzie Dern’s upcoming fight at UFC 321 stands as a potential turning point in both her career and the landscape of women’s MMA. By aiming to become the first woman to achieve a dual championship status, she not only seeks to elevate her legacy but also to honor the groundbreaking achievements of pioneers like Fabricio Werdum. As we approach this monumental event in Abu Dhabi, the stakes could not be higher for Dern as she prepares to write her name into the annals of MMA history.
In the grand narrative of combat sports, Mackenzie Dern UFC 321 is not just a fight; it is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and transformative power of women in the sport. Her journey encapsulates 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 achieve a title in both the ADCC and UFC, a historical milestone not yet accomplished by any female fighter.
How does Mackenzie Dern’s grappling background compare to Fabricio Werdum’s?
Both Dern and Werdum have impressive grappling credentials, with Dern being the only woman to hold titles across all five major IBJJF Gi events, mirroring Werdum’s unmatched achievements in the sport.
What did Dern say about her journey leading up to UFC 321?
Mackenzie expressed a sense of destiny, noting the significance of fighting for a UFC title exactly ten years after winning her first world title in Abu Dhabi.
How significant is Dern’s submission record in the UFC?
With seven of her ten UFC wins coming by submission, Dern has demonstrated a unique ability to apply her elite grappling skills effectively in MMA, highlighted by her historic leg-lock victory.
What historical context surrounds the titles that Dern is vying for?
Winning both an ADCC title and a UFC championship would place Dern in a select group of fighters, as only three men have achieved this feat, making it a monumental goal in women’s combat sports.
