In the electrifying and rapidly expanding world of women’s mixed martial arts (MMA), few athletes have captured the imagination and respect of fans and fighters alike as Weili Zhang. Born on August 13, 1989, in Handan, Hebei, China, Zhang has not only carved out a dominant career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) strawweight division but has also  

Early Life and Martial Arts Beginnings

Weili Zhang’s introduction to martial arts was not through the traditional combat sports often associated with MMA. Instead, at the age of six, she began training in Wushu, a diverse and dynamic Chinese martial art encompassing various forms, stances, and weapon techniques. This early exposure instilled in her a strong foundation in discipline, body control, and striking techniques, elements that would later prove invaluable in her MMA career.

Zhang continued her Wushu training for several years, showcasing her talent in regional competitions. However, like many aspiring athletes, she faced periods of uncertainty and the need to earn a living. Before fully committing to professional fighting, Zhang held various jobs, including working as a kindergarten teacher, a cashier, and a fitness instructor. These experiences, while seemingly disparate from the world of professional combat, likely contributed to her resilience and grounded perspective.

Transition to Mixed Martial Arts and Early Career

The transition from Wushu to MMA is not uncommon for martial artists seeking the ultimate test of their skills.  She began her professional MMA career in China, competing in various promotions and quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with.

Her early career was marked by a dominant streak, showcasing her aggressive striking, developing grappling skills, and relentless pressure. Zhang amassed an impressive record, demonstrating her ability to finish fights both on her feet and on the ground. This early success laid the groundwork for her eventual entry into the world’s premier MMA organization, the UFC.

Arrival in the UFC and Championship Ascent

Weili Zhang made her UFC debut on August 4, 2018, at UFC 227 in Los Angeles, California. She made an immediate impact, securing a unanimous decision victory over Danielle Taylor. This impressive debut put the strawweight division on notice and signaled the arrival of a significant new talent.

Zhang followed up her debut win with two more dominant performances. Then, at UFC 235 in Las Vegas, she earned a unanimous decision victory over Tecia Torres, further solidifying her position as a top contender in the strawweight division.

These three consecutive victories earned Zhang a shot at the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship, which was held by Jessica Andrade at the time. The title fight was scheduled to take place on August 31, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 157 in Shenzhen, China. This event was particularly significant as it marked the first time the UFC held a title fight in mainland China.

 The significance of this achievement resonated deeply in China and across the global MMA community, catapulting Zhang to international stardom.

Reign as UFC Strawweight Champion and Title Defenses

As the UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion, Weili Zhang became a prominent figure in the sport. Her first title defense came against former champion Joanna Jędrzejczyk at UFC 248 on March 7, 2020, in Las Vegas. This fight is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most brutal women’s MMA bouts in history. Over five grueling rounds, Zhang and Jędrzejczyk engaged in a back-and-forth war, showcasing incredible striking skills, toughness, and heart. Zhang ultimately won the fight via split decision, retaining her championship in a contest that earned Fight of the Night honors and set new standards for women’s MMA.

Zhang’s second title defense was against Rose Namajunas at UFC 261 on April 24, 2021, in Jacksonville, Florida. In a shocking turn of events, Namajunas defeated Zhang via a head kick knockout in the first round, ending Zhang’s reign as champion. This loss was a setback for Zhang, but it also demonstrated the unpredictable nature of MMA at the highest level.

Pursuit and Reclamation of the Championship

Following her loss to Namajunas, Zhang immediately sought a rematch. The second fight took place at UFC 268 on November 6, 2021, in New York City. While Zhang put on a strong performance and the fight went the full five rounds, Namajunas once again emerged victorious, this time via split decision.

Despite these consecutive losses to Namajunas, Zhang remained a top contender and displayed resilience in her subsequent fights. She faced Joanna Jędrzejczyk in a rematch at UFC 275 on June 12, 2022, in Singapore. This time, Zhang left no doubt, delivering a brutal spinning back fist knockout in the second round, earning a Performance of the Night bonus and signaling her return to title contention. The fight also marked Jędrzejczyk’s retirement from MMA, adding another layer of significance to Zhang’s victory.

Zhang’s dominant win over Jędrzejczyk earned her another shot at the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship, which was now held by Carla Esparza. Their title fight took place at UFC 281 on November 12, 2022, in New York City.  She defeated Esparza via a rear-naked choke in the second round, reclaiming the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship for the second time. This victory solidified her status as one of the division’s all-time greats.

Second Reign as Champion and Beyond

Since regaining the title, Weili Zhang has continued to assert her dominance in the strawweight division. Her first defense of her second reign came against Amanda Lemos at UFC 292 on August 19, 2023, in Boston. Zhang put on a record-breaking performance, landing the most significant strikes in a women’s UFC fight and securing a dominant unanimous decision victory.

Her second title defense was against Yan Xiaonan, another Chinese fighter, at UFC 300 on April 13, 2024, in Las Vegas. This historic matchup marked the first time two Chinese-born fighters competed for a UFC title. In a thrilling and closely contested fight, Zhang showcased her grappling prowess, securing multiple takedowns and controlling Yan on the ground. She ultimately won via unanimous decision, further cementing her legacy as the UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion.

As of May 9, 2025, Weili Zhang continues to hold the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship and remains a dominant force in the division. Her future in the sport is highly anticipated, with potential matchups against rising contenders and possible super fights in the future.

Fighting Style and Attributes

Weili Zhang is known for her dynamic and aggressive fighting style. Her Wushu background provides her with a diverse striking arsenal, characterized by powerful punches, quick kicks, and effective movement. She is adept at closing the distance and overwhelming her opponents with combinations.

Over the course of her MMA career, Zhang has significantly developed her grappling and wrestling skills. She has demonstrated effective takedowns, strong top control, and a dangerous submission game. This well-rounded skill set makes her a threat both on her feet and on the ground.

Beyond her physical abilities, Zhang is also known for her mental toughness, resilience, and unwavering determination. She has shown the ability to overcome adversity and perform at her best under pressure, as evidenced in her grueling fight against Joanna Jędrzejczyk and her successful title reclamations.

Impact and Legacy

Weili Zhang’s impact on the sport of MMA, particularly in Asia, is undeniable. Her historic championship win in 2019 was a watershed moment, inspiring a new generation of fighters and fans in China and across the continent. She has become a symbol of perseverance and achievement, demonstrating that athletes from any background can reach the highest levels of the sport.

Zhang’s exciting fighting style and her willingness to engage in thrilling battles have made her a fan favorite worldwide. Her fights are often highly anticipated, and she has consistently delivered memorable performances. Her resilience in overcoming losses and reclaiming the championship speaks volumes about her character and dedication.

Beyond her in-cage accomplishments, Zhang has also played a role in promoting women’s MMA and breaking down cultural barriers. Her success has helped to elevate the profile of female fighters and has shown the global appeal of the sport. As the first Chinese UFC champion, she carries a unique responsibility and opportunity to inspire and connect with a massive audience.

Final Thoughts

Weili Zhang’s journey in MMA is a compelling story of dedication, skill, and cultural significance. From her early martial arts training to becoming a two-time UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion, she has consistently defied expectations and etched her name in the history of the sport. As she continues her reign, her legacy as a trailblazer and one of the greatest strawweight fighters of all time is firmly secure. The MMA world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the inspiring story of “Magnum” Weili Zhang.

FAQs

When did Weili Zhang first become the UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion? 

Weili Zhang first won the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship on August 31, 2019, by defeating Jessica Andrade via TKO.

What is Weili Zhang’s fighting style? 

Weili Zhang is known for her aggressive and dynamic striking, which she developed from her Wushu background. She has also significantly improved her grappling and wrestling skills, making her a well-rounded and dangerous fighter both on her feet and on the ground.

What are considered some of Weili Zhang’s most memorable fights? 

Some of her most memorable fights include her first title victory over Jessica Andrade, her epic and brutal first title defense against Joanna Jędrzejczyk at UFC 248, her knockout victory in the rematch against Jędrzejczyk at UFC 275, her title-winning performance against Carla Esparza at UFC 281, her record-breaking title defense against Amanda Lemos at UFC 292, and her historic title defense against fellow Chinese fighter Yan Xiaonan at UFC 300.

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