On Saturday at the UFC’s inaugural event of 2025, Mackenzie Dern accomplished a feat many thought improbable just five years ago: she defeated Amanda Ribas by submission, avenging a previous loss. The fight ended dramatically, with Dern executing a flawless armbar with a mere four seconds left in the third round. This victory not only serves as a significant personal milestone for Dern but also as a testament to her growth and evolution as a fighter since their first encounter in 2019.
Different from her previous matchup, where she struggled to implement her game plan, Dern showcased a refined skill set against Ribas. Throughout the fight, Dern demonstrated her prowess as a submission specialist. Even while defending against Ribas’ formidable judo, Dern made effective use of her grappling abilities by continually threatening submissions from her back. This strategic movement allowed her to secure a dominant position late in the fight, transitioning smoothly into full mount before isolating Ribas’s arm and forcing the tap.
The bout was a microcosm of Dern’s evolution as a mixed martial artist. She skillfully adapted her approach, managing to land 98 total strikes—more than Ribas’s 80. This striking advantage demonstrated her improved comfort and technique in exchanges, reflecting her commitment to not only grappling but also standing exchanges. The cut she inflicted on Ribas with an elbow, while operating from the bottom position, indicated her increasing aggression and effectiveness in combat.
While this victory must feel like a triumph for Dern, it goes beyond simply avenging a loss; it is also a critical juncture in terms of her mental development within the sport. After her previous decision loss, the pressure must have weighed heavily on her mind. As she remarked post-fight, “It sucks when you’re so close to a submission, and the time is almost over.” The psychological hurdles she overcame to secure the win signal her growth not just in physical capabilities but in her fighting mentality.
However, the road to the championship remains steep. Ranked No. 6 in the UFC strawweight division, Dern is now on a two-fight winning streak, yet she has faced a difficult path against higher-ranked competitors, with a record of merely 1-3 against them. Rivals like Tatiana Suarez loom on the horizon, as Suarez is set to challenge champion Zhang Weili. The outcome of that title fight could drastically determine Dern’s trajectory in the division.
Mackenzie Dern’s victory marks an essential step on her journey through the competitive landscape of the UFC strawweight division. The growth she has demonstrated suggests a promising future in high-stakes matchups. As she continues to hone her skills and build a stronger fighting foundation, Dern has the potential to emerge as a significant contender in her weight class. The road ahead may be filled with challenges, but with her latest triumph, she has undoubtedly made significant strides toward her ultimate goal of securing a championship title.
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