Mackenzie Dern Submission Headlines UFC Vegas 101 Main Event
Mackenzie Dern secured a decisive submission victory over Amanda Ribas at UFC Vegas 101, avenging the first loss of her career in dominant fashion. The rematch showcased Dern’s growth as a fighter and her ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes moments.
Mackenzie Dern Submission Seals Sweet Revenge
Their first bout in 2019 saw Amanda Ribas hand Dern the first loss of her professional career. Coming into their rematch at UFC Vegas 101, Dern was determined to show how much she had improved.
“I feel like I was such a different person back then,” Dern said before the fight. “It doesn’t even feel like that was me. I feel like I’m a totally different person. And it was three rounds. I think we’re at totally different phases of our careers.”
From the outset, Dern’s improvements were clear. Under the guidance of Jason Parillo, her striking was sharp and precise, allowing her to control the range and set up takedowns more effectively.
In the second round, Ribas showcased her resilience, reversing a takedown attempt and landing in top control. Despite this, Dern stayed calm and worked from her back, using her elite jiu-jitsu skills to create opportunities.
The decisive moment came in the final round. As Ribas once again found herself on top, Dern shifted position and locked in a deep armbar. With just seconds left in the fight, Ribas had no choice but to tap, marking a spectacular Mackenzie Dern submission win.
“I think I still would have losses in my career, and I’m still happy with where I’m at today,” Dern reflected. “I think it’s what made me be who I am today.”
What’s Next for Dern After UFC Vegas 101?
The Mackenzie Dern submission win at UFC Vegas 101 avenged her previous loss to Ribas and solidified her status as a top contender. The third-round finish not only demonstrated her submission mastery but also hinted at her improved ability to blend striking with grappling.
For Amanda Ribas, the loss is a setback, but her performance showed toughness and technical skill. However, Dern’s ability to push for submissions in high-pressure moments made the difference in their rematch.
With her newfound momentum, fans eagerly await what’s next for Dern. Her combination of striking improvements and world-class submissions makes her a formidable challenge for any opponent in the division.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
