Newly crowned UFC strawweight champion Mackenzie Dern is preparing for her first title defence, with her coach Jason Parillo already targeting a blockbuster matchup against former champion Zhang Weili. The potential showdown would pit Dern’s world-class grappling against Weili’s explosive striking in what many consider the ultimate test for the new champion’s reign.
Parillo’s Preferred Matchup
Jason Parillo has made no secret of his desire to see Mackenzie Dern face Zhang Weili in her first title defence. The renowned coach believes this matchup represents the perfect challenge to establish Dern’s legitimacy as champion. “That’s the fight we want,” Parillo stated emphatically, recognising the significance of defeating a former champion of Weili’s calibre to solidify Dern’s position atop the division.
The coach’s preference for Weili over other potential contenders signals confidence in Dern’s ability to handle the division’s most dangerous strikers. Parillo specifically referenced Valentina Shevchenko’s victory over Weili as a blueprint for success, highlighting how effective distance control and strategic grappling could neutralise Weili’s power.
Dern’s Championship Pedigree
Mackenzie Dern captured the strawweight championship with a victory over Virna Jandiroba, stepping into the vacancy created when Zhang Weili moved up to pursue flyweight gold. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist has steadily evolved her MMA game under Parillo’s guidance, developing the striking skills to complement her world-class ground game.
Since becoming champion, Dern has expressed her commitment to being an active titleholder who faces the division’s toughest challenges. A fight against Weili represents exactly the type of legacy-defining matchup that could elevate Dern’s status from champion to superstar within the UFC landscape.
Strategic Considerations
Parillo has emphasised several key factors that could determine the outcome of a potential Dern-Weili matchup. While acknowledging that size advantages matter in the lighter weight classes, the coach stressed that technical proficiency and strategic execution would be decisive. “Skills and strategy play pivotal roles in determining the outcome of fights,” Parillo noted, indicating a game plan built around controlling distance and creating grappling opportunities.
The matchup presents a classic striker versus grappler dynamic, with Weili’s knockout power contrasting sharply with Dern’s submission expertise. Parillo’s confidence suggests he believes Dern can successfully implement a grappling-heavy approach against one of the division’s most physically strong and technically diverse strikers.
Division Landscape
The UFC strawweight division finds itself at a crossroads following Dern’s championship victory. With several legitimate contenders vying for a title shot, the promotion must decide whether to book an immediate Dern-Weili superfight or have the new champion face other top contenders first. However, the commercial appeal and competitive intrigue of Dern versus Weili may prove too compelling to resist.
Other potential opponents include former title challengers and rising prospects, but none carry the name recognition or championship pedigree of Zhang Weili. The Chinese fighter remains one of the UFC’s biggest international stars, making the matchup particularly attractive from a promotional standpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Mackenzie Dern’s coach want her to fight next?
Jason Parillo has strongly advocated for a title defence against former champion Zhang Weili as Dern’s first fight as champion.
How did Dern win the strawweight championship?
She captured the title by defeating Virna Jandiroba after Zhang Weili vacated the belt to move up to flyweight.
What makes Weili a dangerous opponent for Dern?
Weili possesses exceptional striking power and championship experience that would test Dern’s evolving MMA skills.
What strategy might Dern use against Weili?
Parillo referenced Valentina Shevchenko’s victory over Weili as a blueprint, suggesting a focus on distance control and grappling.
When is Dern expected to make her first title defence?
While no date has been announced, Parillo has emphasised ensuring Dern is fully prepared before committing to a specific timeline.
