Mackenzie Dern Planning to Remain at Strawweight for Next UFC Appearance

Despite her recent struggles on the scales, Mackenzie Dern will continue to compete at 115 pounds in the UFC for the time being.

The decorated grappler’s team confirmed the news to ESPN on Wednesday. Prior to her most recent fight against Amanda Bobby Cooper at UFC 224 this past May, Dern tipped the scales seven pounds over the strawweight limit. Dern would go on to defeat Cooper via rear-naked choke 2:27 into the opening round.

Dern has missed weight for three of her seven professional bouts overall. After UFC 224, Dern said she planned to work with the UFC Performance Institute to help with her weight-cutting issues. According to the ESPN report, Dern made her decision based on a consultation with doctors.

Dern debuted in the Octagon with a split-decision win over Ashley Yoder at UFC 222. The 25-year-old has finished four of her seven victories via submission while competing for organizations such as Invicta and Legacy Fighting Alliance to begin her tenure. She is hoping to return to action at the UFC Fight Night event scheduled for March 23.