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‘One’s Potential Is Unlimited’- Zhang Weili Shares an Inspiring Message to Aspiring Fighters

ByKevin Binoy

Modified Apr 5, 2021 | 6:34 AM EDT

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Zhang Weili is the current strawweight champion in the UFC and is ubiquitously regarded as one of the best strikers not just in the division, but in the UFC period. Ever since her debut in the promotion, ‘Magnum’ has won fans over with her excellent striking skills.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Zhang has been out of action for over a year, but that will change as she returns to action at UFC 261. The fight will be one of three title fights as the UFC welcomes fans back in full attendance in Miami for the first time since UFC 248.

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Can Zhang Weili secure consecutive wins over former champions?

In a recent interview, a reporter asked the UFC strawweight champion what message she would share with up-and-coming fighters.

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‘Magnum’ said, “What I want to say the most, is to never evade your difficulties, but just face the challenges. One’s potential is unlimited, so just try to ignite it. You don’t know how strong you are if you don’t give it a shot and I think youngsters should always keep that in mind.”

‘Magnum’ fought for the UFC belt just four fights into her UFC career. She secured an impressive stoppage win over Jessica Andrade to taste UFC gold for the first time. In her first title defense, she secured a split decision win in arguably the best fight of 2020 against a former champion in Joanna Jedrzejczyk. ‘Magnum’ will now aim to add another former champion to her resume as she takes on a formidable opponent in Rose Namajunas.

The fight will be a treat for fans as they are two of the best strikers in the division. Zhang will have to cope with a two-inch reach disadvantage against Rose Namajunas, who is under the tutelage of one of the brightest minds in the game in Trevor Wittman.

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While ‘Magnum’ lands more significant strikes per minute than ‘Thug’ her defense is not as good. Furthermore, Namajunas is more susceptible to offense from her opposition. Therefore, it will be interesting to see how much the champion’s game has improved in a year away from the sport.