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What’s Next For Mackenzie Dern?

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 2:29 AM ET

Fresh off claiming the vacant UFC Strawweight Title at UFC 321, we look at the next steps for Mackenzie Dern.

Dern clinched the title after defeating Virna Jandiroba, earning the unanimous decision victory with scorecards of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46. This win was a successful rematch for Dern, who previously beat Jandiroba back in 2020.

Dern then revealed she wants to face Tatiana Suarez next, who recently rebounded with a crucial win over Amanda Lemos in September. The timing works perfectly for Dern, with Zhang Weili scheduled to move up a division to challenge Valentina Shevchenko for the UFC Flyweight Championship on November 22nd at UFC 322.

“I’m here to defend it, so whoever gets sent to me, I’ll be ready for. I don’t know if (Zhang) Weili (will come back), but I would definitely like to fight Tatiana (Suarez). Maybe she gets one more fight in. I want to have a couple more fights with some grapplers,” Dern said

Other Options

A fight against Yan Xiaonan would offer Dern a significant stylistic challenge against one of the division’s purest strikers. Yan is known for her high-volume, dynamic striking and has excellent takedown defense, making her a difficult opponent for any grappler. If Dern could secure a takedown and submit Yan, it would validate her growth as a mixed martial artist.

A matchup with Amanda Lemos would be another compelling option, offering Dern a chance at revenge. Lemos previously defeated Dern via a unanimous decision in early 2024, demonstrating her ability to handle Dern’s pressure and powerful grappling attempts. Lemos is arguably the heaviest hitter in the division, boasting powerful knockouts on her record against Marina Rodriguez in 2022, Montserrat Conejo Ruiz in 2021, and Livinha Souza in 2021.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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