Mackenzie Dern

Mackenzie Dern is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) women’s strawweight division. She began her career as a professional MMA fighter with Legacy Fighting Alliance, and then joined Invicta FC before being signed to UFC in 2018.

Dern was born in Scottsdale, Arizona on March24th 1993. Growing up, she developed a deep love for martial arts, learning jiu-jitsu from her father Wellington “Megaton” Dias; who is one of the highest ranking BJJ black belts and recognized authorities in the sport. She has said that he has been a major influence on her throughout her entire life and it inspired her to become a professional martial artist. As an amateur competitor between 2012-2016 she won multiple tournaments including gold medals at both Pan American Championships and World Championships – all while attending college! In 2015 she was awarded Female Fighter of the Year by FloGrappling and then turned pro later that year after signing with LFA.

In addition to competing professionally, Mackenzie also runs various jiu-jitsu camps/seminars across the country along with teaching private lessons for those looking to take their skills further than what classes can offer them. Her instruction style focuses heavily on technique over strength or size; so much so that many students have called it ‘transformative’ when compared against other instructors they’ve trained with before hand!

Since joining UFC Mackenzie has proven herself to be one of its most popular female fighters; winning four out of five fights against top contenders like Ashley Yoder & Amanda Ribas during this time period alone! She is currently ranked #8 among women’s strawweights – though she plans on moving up even further soon enough! Aside from fighting itself though Mackenzie also believes strongly in giving back through charity work as well – often volunteering at anti bullying campaigns & animal rescue shelters whenever possible too which just goes to show how dedicated she truly is off camera too!.

Outside of competition Mackenzie enjoys spending time outdoors doing things like surfing & yoga along with spending time bonding over quality mealtimes cooking authentic Brazilian dishes such as feijoada or moqueca de peixe alongside friends/family members alike!. This combination of skill sets within sports & social activities makes it clear why fans are drawn towards her message – leading into successes seen within both cages alike today!