Published 58 days ago
Dern is set to face three rivals for her UFC title after her victory at UFC 330
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After her unanimous decision victory over Gillian Robertson at UFC 330, strawweight champion Mackenzie Dern confirmed her dominance and now turns her attention to three potential rivals to defend her title. Weili Zhang and Tatiana Suarez top the list, despite their contrasting recent paths.
To remember:
- Mackenzie Dern eyes a future fight against Weili Zhang after her UFC 330 win.
- Tatiana Suarez positions herself as a serious contender with two straight victories.
- The strawweight champion confirms her ground dominance and retains her belt.
Incredible journey for Mackenzie Dern! After dominating Gillian Robertson by unanimous decision at UFC 330, the strawweight champion not only retained her belt but also sent a clear message to her future opponents. With an impressive ground game, Dern proved she remains an unstoppable force in the division. But who will be next to try and take her title?
Weili Zhang: The Former Champion Still in the Hunt
Despite her recent loss to Valentina Shevchenko at flyweight, Weili Zhang remains a formidable contender. Her resume and experience make her an ideal candidate for a rematch with Dern. A win against Zhang would add another glorious chapter to the Chinese champion’s legacy, which has already left its mark on UFC history.
Tatiana Suarez: The Comeback Queen in Form
Tatiana Suarez has had a more chaotic path in recent years, but she’s back with a vengeance. After her loss to Zhang in February 2025, she rattled off two consecutive wins, including a victory over Amanda Lemos. Her ironclad mentality and wrestling prowess make her a more than credible contender. A fight against Dern would be a dream for MMA fans.
A Third Name in the Mix?
Dern has also hinted at a third option, though she hasn’t officially named her yet. Who could slip into this list? Speculation is rife, but one thing is certain: the champion has no shortage of rivals eager to take her belt.
With Zhang’s experience, Suarez’s resilience, and the emergence of a third contender, Mackenzie Dern has her work cut out for her. One thing is certain: UFC fans have plenty to look forward to in the coming months.