Mackenzie Dern is wasting no time setting up her next challenge after capturing the strawweight title at UFC 321. Fresh off her win over Virna Jandiroba, the newly crowned champion is already planning her first defence — and she wants it to happen against former titleholder Zhang Weili.
Dern’s rise has drawn massive attention due to her world-class grappling pedigree, improved striking, and mental resilience. Rather than taking an easy first defence, she is calling for one of the toughest names in the division, signalling that she intends to build a genuine championship legacy rather than enjoy a short reign.
Mackenzie Dern’s Mindset After Winning UFC Gold
Just days after claiming the belt, Dern made it clear she wants to stay active and prove her championship status against elite opposition. With momentum on her side and confidence at an all-time high, she hopes to silence critics by immediately facing a former champion instead of a lower-ranked contender.
Her decision reflects a clear ambition: she does not want to be perceived as a “baby champion” who avoids risk. Instead, she wants to defend her title the same way she earned it — through tough matchups against respected talent.
Why Zhang Weili Is the Target
Among the potential challengers, Zhang Weili stands out as the most compelling opponent. With a decorated past, proven durability and experience against top opposition, Weili offers exactly the kind of test Dern wants. This matchup appeals not only to Dern’s competitive spirit but also to fans who crave high-stakes title fights between proven fighters.
A victory against a former champion would cement Dern’s legitimacy and establish her as the new standard of the division. For Weili, a win would open the door to reclaiming her belt — making this a high-reward fight for both sides.
Experience, Preparation and Legacy
Dern’s approach is shaped not only by her competitive mindset but by her life outside the cage. After taking time off to become a mother, she returned determined to maximise her career window and accelerate her development. Rather than easing back, she has embraced the toughest available schedule to ensure continual improvement.
Her goal is to emulate champions who ruled through activity and adversity, not reputation alone. By targeting top-five opponents immediately, Dern hopes to build a title reign that carries long-term historical relevance rather than short-term hype.
What Comes Next?
If Dern vs Weili is officially booked, it would become one of the most anticipated women’s fights of the year — both for its stylistic contrast and its narrative weight. Grappling excellence versus championship experience. Legacy ambition versus redemption. A defining title defence this early in Dern’s reign would set the tone for the entire division moving forward.
Whether the UFC finalises Weili as the challenger or opts for a different contender, one thing is certain: Mackenzie Dern is not looking for easy fights. She wants the hardest road possible — and she wants it immediately.
