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Dern Eyes Title Shot Against Jandiroba at UFC 321

10/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mackenzie Dern will fight Virna Jandiroba for the vacant Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) strawweight title at UFC 321 on October 25.
The title shot follows Zhang Weili's move to flyweight, leaving the belt vacant.
Dern says she would not feel ready for a title shot if Weili were champion.
Winning the belt would boost her confidence and prepare her for a potential future matchup with Weili.

History

Historical Context

The UFC established the women's strawweight division in 2014, with Carla Esparza becoming its inaugural champion after winning The Ultimate Fighter. This move followed a growing trend in women's mixed martial arts, highlighted by Invicta FC's title fights since 2013. Mackenzie Dern's upcoming title fight against Virna Jandiroba showcases the division's evolution and competitive depth, reflecting the sport's increasing popularity.

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Story summary

Mackenzie Dern will fight Virna Jandiroba for the vacant Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) strawweight title at UFC 321 on October 25.
The title shot follows Zhang Weili's move to flyweight, leaving the belt vacant.
Dern says she would not feel ready for a title shot if Weili were champion.
Winning the belt would boost her confidence and prepare her for a potential future matchup with Weili.

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