As Mackenzie Dern gears up for her highly anticipated rematch against Amanda Ribas at UFC Fight Night 249, fans are eager to see how this talented fighter will perform. Known for her exceptional Brazilian jiu-jitsu skills and engaging personality, Dern has made a significant mark in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Let's dive into her background, career highlights, personal life, and some fun and interesting stories about her.

Background and Career Highlights

Mackenzie Dern boasts an impressive professional MMA record of 15 wins and 5 losses. Her journey in the octagon has been marked by several significant victories, including wins over Angela Hill, Tecia Pennington, and Virna Jandiroba. Before transitioning to MMA, Dern was a decorated Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner, winning multiple world championships. Her grappling prowess has been a cornerstone of her fighting style, making her a formidable opponent on the ground.

Fun and Interesting Stories

One of the most memorable moments in Dern's career occurred at UFC 298, where she mistakenly celebrated a victory she didn't actually win. In a humorous turn of events, Dern thought she had won the fight against Amanda Lemos and celebrated by throwing her hands in the air, only to realize she had lost. This incident was widely discussed among MMA fans and added a lighthearted moment to her career. Dern is also quite active on social media, where she shares glimpses of her training, family life, and interactions with fans. Recently, she responded to a fan's suggestion to improve her stand-up game with a positive acknowledgment, showcasing her willingness to engage with her supporters and take constructive feedback.

Personal Life and Family

Mackenzie Dern was born March 24, 1993, in Phoenix, Arizona. Growing up, she spent considerable time between Arizona and Brazil, her father's homeland. Her father, Wellington "Megaton" Dias, is a renowned grappling competitor and has been a major influence on her career. Growing up in a household immersed in martial arts, Dern was exposed to Brazilian jiu-jitsu from a young age. Her father played an instrumental role in introducing her to the sport and nurturing her skills. Dern attended Ironwood High School in Glendale, Arizona. Despite her demanding training schedule, she managed to balance her education with her passion for martial arts. Her high school years were marked by her continued success in Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitions, where she won numerous titles and accolades. In addition to her professional achievements, Dern's personal life has also been shaped by her family and upbringing in Arizona. She was previously married to professional surfer Wesley Santos, and they have a daughter named Moa, born in 2019. Despite their separation, Dern continues to be a dedicated mother and balances her professional career with her responsibilities as a parent.

Rivalries

Mackenzie Dern's rivalry with Amanda Ribas is one of the most significant in her career. They first fought in 2019, with Ribas winning by unanimous decision. Their upcoming rematch is highly anticipated as Dern looks to avenge that loss and prove her growth as a fighter. Another notable rivalry is with Virna Jandiroba, whom Dern defeated in a closely contested bout in 2020.

Involvement in Other Sports

Dern's background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a significant part of her identity as a fighter. She has won numerous titles in the sport, including the ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship. Her achievements in jiu-jitsu have laid a strong foundation for her MMA career, and she continues to be a prominent figure in both sports.

Conclusion

Mackenzie Dern's journey in MMA is marked by resilience, skill, and an engaging personality that resonates with fans. As she prepares for her rematch against Amanda Ribas, the excitement is palpable. Will Dern be able to avenge her previous loss and showcase her growth as a fighter? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Mackenzie Dern's story is far from over, and her fans will be eagerly watching every step of the way.