Mackenzie Dern

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Mackenzie Dern is a distinguished UFC fighter and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, renowned for her grappling skills. Born into a martial arts family, she developed her talent early and achieved notable milestones in her career, including a professional MMA record of 15 wins and 5 losses. Currently ranked #23 in the strawweight division, her fighting style emphasizes submissions, which has garnered her performance bonuses. Her path in MMA highlights her commitment and skill, revealing further successes and challenges.

Early Life

Mackenzie Dern is the daughter of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Wellington Dias, which greatly influenced her early introduction to martial arts. From a young age, she began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and quickly displayed her talent by competing in grappling tournaments.

Her dedication and skill led her to earn her black belt by the age of 19, marking an important milestone in her martial arts path. Throughout her childhood, Dern participated in multiple championships, achieving notable success as an amateur competitor, including winning the IBJJF World Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

This strong foundation in grappling would later serve her well when she moved to mixed martial arts (MMA).

Family Life

Mackenzie Dern’s family life is closely connected to her MMA career. She is a devoted mother to her daughter Moa, born in 2019, and is married to Wesley Santos, a professional surfer and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner.

Their family environment is built around sports and fitness, with both Moa and Wesley often present at her fights and training sessions, providing crucial support.

Dern attributes much of her early interest and development in martial arts to her family, especially her father, who is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt.

Together, they embody a lifestyle that celebrates athleticism and dedication.

Career

Mackenzie Dern is a distinguished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu specialist with a professional MMA record of 15 wins and 5 losses. She made her UFC debut on March 3, 2018, and has established herself as a notable contender in the strawweight division, currently holding the #23 ranking.

Dern’s grapple-heavy style has led to remarkable victories, including a crucial submission win against Amanda Ribas in January 2025, which marked her comeback after a challenging year. Her grappling skill is highlighted by an impressive submission average of 1.19 per 15 minutes, evidencing her effectiveness in blending her Jiu-Jitsu skills with mixed martial arts.

Throughout her career, Dern has also received performance bonuses, including the UFC Fight Night Performance of the Night, for her enthralling displays inside the octagon.

Net Worth

Mackenzie Dern’s estimated net worth is approximately $1 million, primarily earned through her MMA fights, sponsorships, and endorsements.

Her recent fight earnings, particularly from her most recent match which reportedly netted her around $100,000, considerably contribute to her financial success.

In addition to her fight purses, Dern has participated in grappling events and exhibitions, further enhancing her financial portfolio.

Her growing presence in the MMA community, combined with performance bonuses and partnerships with diverse brands, reflects her success in the sport and continues to rise as she gains more recognition.