The UFC strawweight division was abuzz with speculation about who could potentially challenge the established legacy of Weili Zhang. Among the fighters stirring up excitement in the combat community, Mackenzie Dern is frequently mentioned as a formidable contender and what might be the day to replicate what Zhang has been doing for years. Dern’s fight against Jessica Andrade in UFC 295 could have solidified her status as one of the most formidable fighters in the women’s straw fight division but alas!
Dern’s career has been nothing but a rollercoaster ride. Despite making a considerable impact in the MMA, she had to step away to face her personal issues which included taking care of her daughter. Now, it appears that she has a lot to prove and the fans have their own views on her underwhelming performance.
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Mackenzie Dern suffers a loss against Jessica Andrade
Both fighters were looking good in the opening round, but it was Andrade who proved to be the superior adversary. Dern showcased her dominant striking ability, but it was nothing compared to her opponent. Andrade was effectively showcasing an all-round performance which Dern lacked.
The first round was Andrade’s round. Despite Dern’s recovery in the second round, Andrade continued to dominate. In the end, Andrade’s continuous knockout punches sent Dern to the canvas and Andrade clinched the victory.
The fighter was knocked to the mat at least four times before she finally got knocked out. She struggled with her takedown attempts. Grabbing Andrade’s leg and trying to topple her into a choke but it just didn’t work out. In the end, it was Andrade who came out on top.
The Fans have reacted!
Fans seem to be disappointed by Dern’s performance as they took to the internet to express their opinion:-
“Dern has maybe even worse striking that I see in a beginner kickboxing class”
Some fans refused to acknowledge Dern as an accomplished fighter.
“Why did they put her against a real fighter?”
“Does Dern even have a striking coach? If so, she needs to find a new one.”
Others took the moment to remind her of her BJJ background.
“What the? Dern thinks this is bjj and nothing more. She was knocked out three times.”
“Why on God’s earth would she stand with a slugger and can’t punch! If it was me you would have seen the fastest double leg takedown ever! Followed by mount! That’s real jujitsu this fight might have been fixed”
“Dern has the worst striking in the ufc”
Finally, one fan had some sympathy for the fighter.
“Today wasn’t her day, this happens, it’s normal, but she’ll come back stronger” (Translated from Portuguese).
The last fan is right no matter how we look at it. The truth is, Dern couldn’t stand her opponent’s attacks. It was a difficult fight to watch for many who were expecting a huge dose of entertainment. While Dern tried her best to keep Andrade on her toes, it just wasn’t so.
What are your thoughts on this?
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Written by
Edited by
Joyita Das