Two of Brazil’s finest grapplers are set to collide in the co-main event of UFC 321, as Virna Jandiroba takes on Mackenzie Dern for the vacant UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship. This isn’t just a fight—it’s a showcase of elite-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu mastery in the UFC Octagon.
On Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, these two submission experts will battle for gold in front of a global audience.
Event Details
- Event: UFC 321: Aspinall vs Gane
- Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
- Start Time: 2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT / 7:00pm BST
- Venue: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Broadcast: ESPN+ Pay-Per-View (Main Card)
Serving as the co-main event, Jandiroba vs Dern represents a changing of the guard in the women’s strawweight division. Both fighters have paid their dues, and now one of them will finally claim UFC gold.
The Fighters
Both Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern come from elite grappling backgrounds, but their paths to the Octagon couldn’t be more different.
Jandiroba is known for her relentless pace, strong positional control, and ground dominance.
Dern, meanwhile, brings creativity, fluid movement, and world-champion BJJ flair that can finish a fight in seconds.
This fight isn’t just about who has the better grappling—it’s about who can apply it under pressure and adapt inside the cage.
Virna Jandiroba – The Brazilian Warrior
Virna “Carcará” Jandiroba is a former Invicta FC champion who transitioned to the UFC in 2019. Known for her toughness and submission skills, she’s slowly built a reputation as one of the most complete grapplers in the women’s division.
Her victories over names like Angela Hill and Marina Rodriguez proved her ability to control fights with patience and precision. Jandiroba’s wrestling and transitions make her dangerous from any position, especially when she gets top control.
Key Strengths:
- Elite-level takedowns and ground control
- Durable and disciplined under pressure
- Superior fight IQ and cage awareness
Mackenzie Dern – The Submission Queen
A multiple-time world champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mackenzie Dern made her UFC debut with high expectations—and she’s grown immensely since then. Known for her submission wins, Dern has worked hard to round out her striking game, especially under the guidance of top coaches in California.
While her ground game remains her biggest weapon, Dern’s improved footwork and jab have made her far more dangerous. When she smells blood, she closes the distance quickly and hunts for the finish with precision.
Key Strengths:
- Exceptional submission setups
- Lightning-fast transitions
- Calmness under pressure and improved striking
Road to UFC 321
Both fighters earned their title shots through grit, consistency, and dominance on the mat.
Jandiroba’s Path to Glory
Virna’s recent victories showcased her evolution as a mixed martial artist. She displayed crisp boxing combinations and relentless top control, proving she’s more than just a grappler. Her fight IQ and cardio make her a formidable threat in five-round battles.
Dern’s Redemption Journey
After setbacks earlier in her career, Dern refocused and rebuilt. Her wins over rising contenders reminded fans why she was once considered the future of the division. With a new mental approach and confidence, she’s ready for the biggest fight of her career.
Tale of the Tape
| Fighter | Virna Jandiroba | Mackenzie Dern |
|---|---|---|
| Nationality | Brazil | Brazil |
| Record | 21-3-0 | 14-4-0 |
| Height | 5’3″ | 5’4″ |
| Reach | 64 in | 63 in |
| Style | Grappling/Wrestling | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
Fight Analysis and Predictions
This matchup is a chess match on the ground. Both women possess high-level grappling, but their approaches differ significantly.
Jandiroba’s advantage lies in her control and ability to dictate where the fight takes place. She’s a grinder—methodical, efficient, and suffocating. Dern, on the other hand, thrives in scrambles. If the fight turns into a submission battle, her creativity could shine through.
Key Factors That Could Decide the Fight
- Octagon Control: Jandiroba will look to press Dern against the cage and secure takedowns.
- Submission Transitions: Dern’s fluidity can create surprise finishes even from her back.
- Endurance: If the fight goes into deep waters, Jandiroba’s cardio could become a major advantage.
Prediction:
It’s a razor-close matchup, but Virna Jandiroba may edge out a decision victory with superior control and consistency. Still, Mackenzie Dern remains a live threat to submit anyone at any moment.
What This Fight Means for the Division
The strawweight division has long been dominated by legends like Rose Namajunas, Zhang Weili, and Carla Esparza. Now, a new chapter begins. The winner of Jandiroba vs Dern could usher in a new era for women’s MMA—one built on elite grappling and Brazilian dominance.
Fans’ Expectations and Social Buzz
Fans are calling this matchup “The Grappling Dream.” On social media, fighters and analysts alike have expressed excitement about witnessing two world-class BJJ athletes clash on the UFC’s biggest stage. Whether it ends by submission or decision, this fight promises technique, intensity, and heart.
How to Watch UFC 321 Live
You can catch UFC 321 live on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View in the U.S., with prelims airing on ESPN+ and FX. International fans can stream the action via UFC Fight Pass.
- Main Card Start Time: 2:00 PM ET
- Prelims: 10:00 AM ET
| Card | Start Time (ET) | Platform |
| Main Card (Jandiroba vs. Dern) | 2:00 PM ET | ESPN+ PPV |
| Prelims | 12:00 PM ET | ESPN, FX, and ESPN+ |
| Early Prelims | 10:00 AM ET | UFC Fight Pass and ESPN+ |
To watch the Jandiroba vs. Dern fight in the U.S.:
- You must have a subscription to ESPN+.
- You must then purchase the UFC 321 PPV event through ESPN+.
Also International Viewing Options
Broadcast partners and viewing structure (PPV or subscription) vary significantly by country.
| Region | Main Card (Jandiroba vs. Dern) Platform |
| United Kingdom (UK) / Ireland | TNT Sports Box Office or Discovery+ |
| Canada | Available via PPV and the Sportsnet+ app. |
| Brazil | UFC Fight Pass |
| India | Sony Liv |
| Australia | Main Event on Foxtel or Kayo Sports PPV |
| Rest of the World | Check local availability, often on UFC Fight Pass or regional sports networks like DAZN (in certain markets). |
The co-main event of UFC 321 has everything—storyline, skill, and high stakes. Virna Jandiroba vs Mackenzie Dern isn’t just another fight; it’s a celebration of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the sport’s highest level. Whether it’s a grind or a quick submission, this bout will define who reigns supreme in the women’s strawweight division.
FAQs
1. What is the main event of UFC 321?
The main event is Tom Aspinall vs Ciryl Gane for the UFC Heavyweight Championship.
2. Who are Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern?
Both are elite Brazilian grapplers competing for the vacant UFC Women’s Strawweight title.
3. When and where does UFC 321 take place?
The event takes place on October 25, 2025, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
4. How can fans watch the fight live?
Fans can watch it on ESPN+ PPV in the U.S. and UFC Fight Pass internationally.
5. What’s next for the winner of this title bout?
The winner becomes the new Strawweight Champion and will likely face top contenders such as Amanda Lemos or Tatiana Suarez in 2026.
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