Former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson has raised concerns about Mackenzie Dern’s recent tendency to prioritize striking over her elite Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu credentials as she prepares for her vacant strawweight title fight against Virna Jandiroba at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.
“Mighty Mouse” Johnson, widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists in history, argues that Dern’s downfall may stem from falling in love with her hands rather than leveraging the grappling dominance that built her reputation.
Mackenzie Dern’s Title Challenge Under Scrutiny: UFC Legend Questions Striking Strategy
Dern holds a rematch opportunity against Jandiroba after defeating her via unanimous decision at UFC 256 in December 2020.