UFC 321: Co-main event Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenzie Dern Fight – Preview and Prediction
The much-anticipated UFC 321 is finally set to take place this weekend at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, drawing global attention. Headlining the event will be the thrilling heavyweight showdown between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane. In the co-main event, the vacant women’s strawweight title will be up for grabs as Virna Jandiroba faces Mackenzie Dern in a high-stakes battle. Here’s a quick breakdown of the fight and final prediction for the fight.
Virna Jandiroba
Virna Jandiroba is a seasoned Brazilian grappler and former Invicta FC strawweight champion, and continues to carve her path in the UFC. Known for her elite BJJ and relentless top control, Jandiroba has steadily evolved into one of the most complete ground specialists in the division. Jandiroba is currently on a five-fight winning streak and holds the #1 position in the women’s strawweight rankings.
Earlier this year, Jandiroba beat Yan Xiaonan via unanimous decision and is determined to prove she belongs among the elite. Now, as she prepares to face fellow Brazilian jiu-jitsu ace Mackenzie Dern at UFC 321, Jandiroba views the matchup not just as a test of skill but as a massive opportunity.
Mackenzie Dern
Over the past few years, Mackenzie Dern has evolved into one of the most dangerous and skilled finishers in the UFC strawweight division. With her world championship grappling pedigree and multiple submission wins inside the Octagon, she remains a constant threat. Her relentless takedown pressure and smooth transitions make her a nightmare matchup for nearly every contender she faces.
Following her impressive recent performances, Dern has steadily climbed the rankings while refining her striking. In her last fight, Dern submitted Amanda Ribas via an armbar to extend her winning streak. Now facing fellow grappling specialist Virna Jandiroba at UFC 321, Dern sees this as the perfect opportunity to win the title.
What time is the fight?
The main fight card of UFC 321 is scheduled to kick off at 11:00 pm BST, giving fans in the United Kingdom a prime-time viewing experience. The preliminary card will begin earlier at 8:00 pm BST, ensuring an action-packed lead-up to the main event. In the United States, the main card starts at 6:00 pm ET, streaming live exclusively on ESPN+.
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Statistical Matchup
| CATEGORY | Virna Jandiroba | Mackenzie Dern |
| AGE | 37 | 32 |
| HEIGHT | 1.6 m | 1.63 m |
| REACH | 162.6 cm | 160 cm |
| PRO RECORD | 22 – 3 – 0 | 15 – 5 – 0 |
| FIGHTING OUT OF | Serrinha, Bahia | Phoenix, Arizona |
Final Prediction
Mackenzie Dern believes the upcoming bout with Virna Jandiroba will be a technical chess match on the ground. However, she hasn’t ruled out a knockout finish from her improved stand-up game. Confident in her preparation, Dern predicts a submission victory and sees this fight as her final step before getting women’s strawweight glory.
Dern previously faced Jandiroba at UFC 256, where she secured a dominant unanimous decision victory and believes she holds a clear upper hand. On the other side, Jandiroba enters the rematch with calm focus and deep respect for Dern’s grappling brilliance. Her ultimate goal is to become the third woman fighter from Invicta FC history to capture a UFC championship title.
Prediction: Virna Jandiroba via Unanimous Decision
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