What Is Next for a 32-Year-Old UFC Women’s Strawweight Fighter?
Mackenzie Dern has taken over as the Strawweight champion and has much more to prove in the division. The 32-year-old from California defeated Virna Jandiroba at UFC 321 for the vacant belt and picked up a monumental victory. Dern has been known for her elite grappling with many who will look to challenge her for the throne. She has shown why she belongs at the top, and she is ready to defend her belt.
Defeating Jandiroba was no small task either. The 37-year-old Brazilian has had a dominating career in the UFC thus far. She has mounted some very impressive victories and is one of the elite fighters in the Strawweight Division. Dern was able to combat Jandiroba’s submission very well, with aggressive ground work and damaging strikes. Dern, who is most known for her Jiu-Jitsu, showed that she has much more to her skillset. She is now the woman to beat in the Strawweight Division, with a lot to expect in the future. Having the title is a great accomplishment, but it will come with many challenges. The pressure is on Dern, with many fighters looking to dethrone her. She should look to keep training hard and sharpen all of her skills as a fighter. Specifically working on more striking techniques and developing a finishing instinct. While a win by decision for the belt is still a win, she would like to prove that she can finish a fight early. Taking strategic fights next will also help her as champion. Tatiana Suarez is a name that has circulated for whom Dern should maybe fight next. Both fighters match up well as talented grapplers, and it is also a logistical next step for the new champion.
Mackenzie Dern has momentum on her side, but also some challenges to come. Being a champion comes with a lot more pressure from other fighters, but also the viewers. Many will want to see her continue to dominate others in the division, so her preparation will be crucial. Taking on more challenging fighters is definitely a risk, but she has proven that she has what it takes. The 32-year-old has a very exciting future ahead of her, with many eager to see what is next.
