UFC’s Mackenzie Dern Plans To ‘Fix’ Issues From Loss

Mackenzie Dern is not familiar with losing. 

But, the UFC fighter understands that it can serve as a valuable learning point.

Dern lost her chance to move one step closer to competing for UFC gold this past weekend, dropping a decision to Marina Rodriguez. The bout served as the main event for UFC Fight Night live on ESPN+.

For Dern, she plans to get back in the gym and prepare for another run highlighted by a shot at the title.

“Thank you everyone for all the support!,” Dern posted on Instagram after the loss. “(Saturday) wasn’t the result I was training for, but this fight is the biggest learning experience for me! Now I have a lot to look back on and fix to become a better fighter!

“For sure a submission would have been great but to have these rounds for me to work on is such a blessing! Congrats Marina for the win!

“I hope you guys enjoyed the fight and thanks (Dana White) for the FOTN. Thank you to my family, my team, my friends and everyone who continues to support me! Letssss gooo!”

Dern bounced back from her only other loss with four consecutive wins. She dropped a decision to Amanda Ribas back in 2019 after becoming a mother and taking nearly two years off. 

During that run, Dern submitted Hannah Cifers, Randa Markos and Nina Nunes while adding a decision win over Virna Jandiroba.