Mackenzie Dern is a jiu jitsu practitioner, mixed martial artist, UFC fighter, social media influencer, brand ambassador, and fitness model.
She is also one of the most beautiful fighters in the world, with beauty queen good looks, and a physique most women would kill to possess.
In this article we will be looking at her career, life outside of fighting, achievements, diet, training, and simply trying to find out the secret to how she keeps her body looking like that all year round. Now let’s get started.
Table of Contents
ToggleMackenzie Dern Biography
Mackenzie is truly a special, up and coming fighter. She has already done huge things in her original sport of jiu jitsu, and there looks to be no good reason why she can’t make a big impact in the UFC. So let’s start from the beginning.
Fighter Statistics
BIRTH NAME: Mackenzie Lynne Dern
MARRIED NAME: Mackenzie Lynne Dern Santos
NICKNAME: The Accent
NATIONALITY: American & Brazilian
ETHNICITY: Brazilian American
RELIGION: Christianity
PLACE OF BIRTH: Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.
LIVES IN: Los Angeles, California
PROFESSION:
HEIGHT: 1.63 M OR 5′ 4″
WEIGHT: 52 KG OR 115 lb
MEASUREMENTS: 37-26-38
CUP SIZE: 34D
DATE OF BIRTH (BIRTHDAY): March 24, 1993
AGE: 29 Years Old
ZODIAC SIGN: Aries
Husband: Wesley Santos (Split in 2022)
SIBLINGS: 2 Half Siblings, (Half Sister), Korah and (Half Brother) Merrick
PARENTS: (MOTHER) Luciana “Luka” Tavares Dias, (FATHER) Wellington “Megaton” Dias
CHILDREN/KIDS: (DAUGHTERS) Moa Dern Santos
FAMOUS FRIENDS: Megan Olivi
NOTABLE OPPONENTS: Tecia Torres, Nina Nunes, Randa Markos, Ashley Yoder, Amanda Ribas
FIGHTING STYLE: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
CURRENT TEAM: RVCA
TRAINER: Jason Parillo
Early Years & Family Life
Mackenzie Lynne Dern was born on March 24th 1993 in Phoenix, Arizona, United States. Her parents are both Brazilian immigrants, who moved to the US looking for a better life.
Both her perants are also Brazilian jujitsu phenomes in their own right. Her mother, Luciana “Luka” Tavares Dias is one of the most accomplished Brazilian jiu jitsu black belts ever to compete at the highest level, and her father, Wellington Leal Dias Santos, who was her mother’s trainer, is also a 7th degree coral belt of the Gracie Humaitá jiu-jitsu association under Royler Gracie.
He has also made his mark on the world jujitsu scene. He compete and medalled in the pan America, European, worlds, ADCC, the US national championships, and the Rickson Gracie international championships. Santos was also crowned the Rio de Janeiro state champion, which is just about the most diffecult championship to win in the country, due to Rio being a BJJ hub.
He is the only person ever to compete in all 24 of the Brazilian jujitsu World Championships since its inception in 1996.
Wellington is also a world class judo practitioner. His nickname is Megaton, and he gained this nickname due to, when he was competing in judo, he used to launch his Competition through the air which resembled a nuclear blast.
With parents like these it’s not difficult to see how she has become one of the best female martial artists in the world.
She Started Training Very Young
At three years old young Mackenzie started her jujitsu training, showing great promise even back then. With world class parents training her from such a young age it wasn’t long before she started competing winning many youth titles along the way. When she was only 14 it was clear that she was too much for competitors of her own age so she started competing at the adult level.
Jiu Jitsu Career
She had great success from the start, winning the World Championships at every level, even becoming champion at black belt level. She graduated to the black belt level just before her 20th birthday, when she was awarded this honor by her father. Dern is also the only female jiu jitsu competitor to win gold medals at all of the five highest-ranking IBJJF championships. She even managed to defeat the 260-pound behemoth, which is Gabby Garcia. When she faced Garcia she was giving away well over 100 pounds in weight.
MMA Career
Dern started her professional MMA career in 2016, with Legacy Fighting Alliance, where she defeated her second opponent in the first round by submission. She then moved on to Invicta FC, where she continued her winning streak with another submission victory.
In 2018, she signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Her debut against Ashley Yoder was a challenging fight that went to a decision, with Mackenzie ultimately receiving the win. She also won her next battle against Amanda Cooper by submission but she struggled with her weight cut and missed the 116-pound limit for the strawweight division. However, in her next fight, she suffered her first defeat against Amanda Ribas,
Dern bounced back from her first loss against Amanda Ribas with a victory against Hannah Cifers and followed it up with a submission win against Randa Markos, moving her up in the rankings. She then faced her toughest opponent to date, Nina Nunes, who Dern defeated by armbar in September 2020.
Dern, known for her impressive grappling skills, has finished seven of her twelve victories by submission. She continues to train and improve her striking, hoping to become a well-rounded fighter. With a record of 12-3, Dern remains a fan favorite and a rising star in the UFC.
Notable Accomplishments
She is a six-time world champion in the sport of BJJ and holds numerous other titles, including ADCC Champion and Pan American Gold Medalist. In MMA, she has held notable wins over UFC fighters such as Randa Markos, Virna Jandiroba, Nina Nunes, Tecia Torres, and Ashley Yoder. Furthermore, she has been featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine twice.
All of these accomplishments demonstrate her dedication to martial arts and her determination to succeed at the highest level possible.
Modeling & Endorsements
Aside from her successful MMA career, Mackenzie Dern has also ventured into the world of modeling. She has been featured in various publications and campaigns, showcasing both her athletic physique and natural beauty.
In 2018, Dern was named one of Sports Illustrated’s Lovely Ladies of the Day, appearing in a stunning swimsuit shoot. She has also graced the pages of magazines such as Maxim and Fitness Gurls, among others.
Dern’s modeling career extends beyond print media, as she has also appeared in commercials for companies such as Reebok and Xbox.
Her striking looks and engaging personality have also caught the attention of fashion designers, earning her invitations to sit in the front row at New York Fashion Week and the opportunity to attend exclusive industry events.
Dern’s modeling pursuits have not taken away from her MMA training, as she continues to work hard both in the gym and in front of the camera. Her versatility and drive have made her a rising star not just in the octagon, but also in the modeling world.
Net Worth
Mackenzie Dern has amassed a considerable net worth through her successful career in martial arts. While her exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, it is estimated to be around $2 million, which is a remarkable amount for someone who is just in her late 20s.
One of the primary sources of Dern’s income is her professional MMA career. She has competed in numerous high-profile fights in the UFC, which is known for paying its athletes handsomely. In addition to her fight purses, Dern also earns money through endorsement deals, sponsorships, and appearances.
Dern’s success in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has also contributed significantly to her net worth. As a six-time world champion in the sport, she has earned a reputation as one of the best BJJ practitioners of her generation. Her accomplishments have led to lucrative opportunities, such as teaching seminars and conducting camps around the world.
Aside from martial arts, Dern has also dabbled in modeling, which has further bolstered her income. She has worked with high-profile brands such as Reebok and has been featured in several magazines, including Sports Illustrated.
Another source of income for Dern is her family’s business, which includes martial arts academies in Arizona and California. Dern has been involved in the business since a young age, and her success in combat sports has helped attract more students to the academies.
Overall, Mackenzie Dern’s net worth is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and success in multiple areas of her life. With her talent and drive, it is likely that her net worth will continue to grow in the coming years.
Endorsements
In addition to her successful MMA and BJJ careers, Mackenzie Dern has also garnered attention from various companies and brands seeking to partner with her through endorsement deals. As a recognizable face in the world of martial arts, it is no surprise that Dern has become a sought-after spokesperson for multiple brands.
One notable endorsement deal that Dern has landed is with Reebok. The popular sportswear company signed Dern as an official brand ambassador in 2018, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the world of martial arts. As part of the partnership, Dern has appeared in several Reebok campaigns and commercials, promoting the brand’s training gear and apparel.
Another notable endorsement deal that Dern has secured is with CBD company, Veritas Farms. As an athlete who puts her body through rigorous training and competition, Dern has become an advocate for using CBD products as a way to manage pain and promote recovery. She regularly promotes Veritas Farms’ CBD products on her social media channels, including their tinctures, gummies, and topicals.
Dern has also worked with supplement company, Garden of Life, on several occasions. She has promoted the brand’s plant-based protein powders and other supplements, sharing her love for the products with her followers. In addition to her endorsement deals with Reebok, Veritas Farms, and Garden of Life, Dern has also worked with other companies that align with her values and lifestyle, including Hyperice and Athleta.
As a social media influencer, Dern has also been approached by companies seeking to partner with her for sponsored posts and content creation. She has worked with brands such as Sony, Maui Jim, and Vita Coco, creating social media content that promotes their products and services.
With her growing social media following, impressive athletic achievements, and recognizable face, Mackenzie Dern has become a valuable asset to brands seeking to reach a wider audience. Her endorsements and partnerships not only bring in additional income for Dern but also serve as a testament to her impact and influence in the world of combat sports.
Is Mackenzie Dern gay?
There is no indication that Mackenzie Dern is gay. While her personal life is not typically in the public eye, Dern has not made any public statements about her sexual orientation.
It is important to note that an individual’s sexual orientation is a personal matter and is not anyone else’s business unless they choose to share it. As a public figure, Dern has the right to privacy and can choose what aspects of her personal life she wishes to share with the public.
Overall, there is no evidence to suggest that Mackenzie Dern is gay.
Does Mackenzie Dern have a husband or boyfriend?
As of 2021, Mackenzie Dern is married to her longtime boyfriend, Wesley Santos. The couple tied the knot in June 2021 in an intimate ceremony in Hawaii.
The two had been dating for several years and got engaged in 2019. Santos himself is a martial artist, training in Jiu-Jitsu and MMA alongside his wife. He has been a constant source of support for Dern, often accompanying her to her fights and cheering her on from ringside.
Prior to her marriage to Santos, Dern was not known to be in any public relationships. She has generally kept her personal life private, preferring to focus on her MMA and modeling careers.
With her marriage to Santos, it is clear that Mackenzie Dern has found a partner who shares her passion for martial arts and supports her ambitions both inside and outside the octagon. Their relationship is a testament to the importance of strong support systems in the pursuit of one’s goals.
Funny Accent
She has achieved great success in her professional career, but one thing that many people find endearing about her is her funny accent.
Dern was born in the United States but raised as a Brazilian. As a result of this, she speaks English with an unmistakable Brazilian twang that can make even the most serious conversations seem humorous. Her accent is so unique that it’s become part of what makes Mackenzie Dern stand out from other fighters.
In addition to being entertaining, Mackenzie Dern’s accent provides insight into her background and upbringing as well as how she views the world around her. Whether you are watching a highlight video or hearing an interview with her, you will be sure to get a chuckle out of her amusing accent!
Mackenzie Dern’s Body
Mackenzie Dern’s physique is a key factor in her success as a competitive martial artist. Standing at 5’4″ and weighing around 125 pounds, Dern possesses an impressive combination of strength, agility, and speed that has allowed her to dominate opponents in both Brazilian jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts.
Exercise & Nutrition
Dern’s muscular physique is the result of years of dedicated training and conditioning. She follows a rigorous strength and conditioning program that includes high-intensity interval training, weightlifting, and cardio workouts. Dern also incorporates functional movement exercises that mimic the demands of her sport, such as deadlifts, squats, and pull-ups.
In addition to her physical training, Dern follows a disciplined diet that fuels her body for optimal performance. She adheres to a clean, whole foods-based diet, emphasizing lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Dern also avoids processed and sugary foods, opting instead for nutrient-dense options such as leafy greens, fresh fruits, and lean meats.
Dern’s commitment to her physique has not gone unnoticed by her fans and followers. Many have praised her toned abs, chiseled arms, and powerful legs, with some even citing her as a fitness inspiration. Dern has used her platform to share her fitness journey with others, providing tips and insights on how to build strength, improve endurance, and maintain healthy body composition.
Despite the demands of her sport, Dern remains committed to maintaining a healthy relationship with her body. She advocates for body positivity and self-love, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to fitness and nutrition. Dern’s physique is a testament to her dedication, discipline, and hard work, and serves as a source of inspiration for both aspiring martial artists and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Training Routine
Mackenzie Dern’s training regime is a carefully crafted combination of strength and conditioning exercises, designed to build muscle, improve endurance, and keep her in peak physical condition. Here is a breakdown of her weekly training schedule, along with the reps she performs for each exercise:
Day 1: Upper Body
– Warm-up: 5 minutes of jump rope
– Pull-ups: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Push-ups: 3 sets of 15 reps
– Dumbbell rows: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Shoulder press: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Bicep curls: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Tricep dips: 3 sets of 15 reps
– Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching
Day 2: Lower Body
– Warm-up: 5 minutes of jump rope
– Squats: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Deadlifts: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Lunges: 3 sets of 10 reps (each leg)
– Leg press: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Calf raises: 3 sets of 15 reps
– Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching
Day 3: Cardio
– Warm-up: 5 minutes of jump rope
– Treadmill: 30 minutes of interval training (1 minute of high intensity followed by 1 minute of moderate intensity)
– Rowing machine: 20 minutes of steady-state rowing
– Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching
Day 4: Upper Body & Core
– Warm-up: 5 minutes of jump rope
– Bench press: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Dumbbell flyes: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Cable curls: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Overhead tricep extensions: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Russian twists: 3 sets of 15 reps
– Plank: 3 sets of 60 seconds
– Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching
Day 5: Lower Body & Core
– Warm-up: 5 minutes of jump rope
– Front squats: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Hamstring curls: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Box jumps: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Leg extensions: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Bicycle crunches: 3 sets of 15 reps
– Leg raises: 3 sets of 12 reps
– Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching
Day 6: Rest
– Mackenzie Dern takes a rest day to allow her body to recover from the previous week’s workouts.
Day 7: Full Body
– Warm-up: 5 minutes of jump rope
– Kettlebell swings: 3 sets of 20 reps
– Burpees: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Medicine ball slams: 3 sets of 12 reps
– TRX rows: 3 sets of 10 reps
– Box step-ups: 3 sets of 10 reps (each leg)
– Plank jacks: 3 sets of 15 reps
– Cool down: 5 minutes of stretching
Mackenzie Dern performs each exercise with proper form, paying close attention to her breathing and technique. She takes rest periods as needed, allowing her body adequate time to recover between sets. With her dedication, discipline, and commitment to her training regime, it’s no wonder why she is considered one of the top martial artists in the world.
Diet Plan
Mackenzie Dern’s diet and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining her impressive physique and sustaining her high level of performance. As a professional athlete, she knows the importance of fueling her body with the right nutrients to optimize her athletic performance and support her recovery.
One Week Diet & Meal Plan
Mackenzie Dern’s diet and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining her impressive physique and sustaining her high level of performance. As a professional athlete, she knows the importance of fueling her body with the right nutrients to optimize her athletic performance and support her recovery.
Here is a breakdown of Mackenzie Dern’s 7-day diet meal plan:
Day 1:
– Breakfast: Spinach and mushroom egg scramble with whole-grain toast
– Snack: Greek yogurt with mixed berries
– Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and roasted veggies
– Snack: Apple slices with almond butter
– Dinner: Grilled salmon with steamed broccoli and brown rice
Day 2:
– Breakfast: Protein smoothie with spinach, banana, almond milk, and whey protein powder
– Snack: Hummus with carrot sticks
– Lunch: Shrimp stir-fry with mixed veggies and brown rice
– Snack: Protein bar
– Dinner: Baked sweet potato with black beans, avocado, and salsa
Day 3:
– Breakfast: Oatmeal with mixed berries and almond butter
– Snack: Cottage cheese with sliced pear
– Lunch: Turkey burger with sweet potato fries
– Snack: Trail mix with nuts and dried fruit
– Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with roasted asparagus and quinoa
Day 4:
– Breakfast: Greek yogurt with granola and banana slices
– Snack: Hard-boiled egg with baby carrots
– Lunch: Tuna salad with mixed greens and whole-grain bread
– Snack: Protein shake with almond milk and whey protein powder
– Dinner: Baked salmon with mixed veggies and brown rice
Day 5:
– Breakfast: Breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, black beans, avocado, and salsa
– Snack: Protein bar
– Lunch: Chicken fajita bowl with brown rice, black beans, and veggies
– Snack: Banana with almond butter
– Dinner: Baked chicken breast with roasted sweet potato and mixed greens
Day 6:
– Breakfast: Protein smoothie with mixed berries, spinach, and whey protein powder
– Snack: Greek yogurt with honey and sliced almonds
– Lunch: Grilled shrimp with mixed veggies and quinoa
– Snack: Cottage cheese with mixed berries
– Dinner: Steamed fish with roasted veggies and quinoa
Day 7:
– Breakfast: Whole-grain waffles with mixed berries and nut butter
– Snack: Protein shake with almond milk and whey protein powder
– Lunch: Turkey chili with mixed greens and whole-grain bread
– Snack: Trail mix with nuts and dried fruit
– Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with sautéed spinach and brown rice
Each meal and snack in Mackenzie Dern’s diet meal plan is carefully chosen to provide her body with a balanced mix of protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense veggies and fruits. Her diet is designed to support her intense training schedule, fuel her body appropriately, and enhance her recovery time. By following a nutritious and balanced diet, Dern ensures that she stays at the top of her game and continues to dominate in the world of martial arts.
Mackenzie's Social Media
Mackenzie Dern is not only an exceptional athlete who has taken the world of martial arts by storm, but she is also a social media-savvy personality who uses various platforms to engage with her fans and promote her brand. Dern has amassed a large following on several social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit, where she often shares insights about her training routines, diet, and personal life.
On Facebook, Mackenzie Dern has a verified page with over 150,000 likes and followers, where she posts updates about her upcoming fights, training regimen, and lifestyle. Her page also features endorsements for her sponsors and a range of photos and videos, showcasing her skills and achievements as a martial artist. Dern’s Facebook timeline is peppered with motivational quotes, messages of gratitude, and shoutouts to her fans, making her page a source of inspiration for her followers.
Mackenzie Dern’s Instagram account is perhaps her most popular social media platform, boasting over 1.5 million followers. Dern’s Instagram is a visual treat for martial arts fans, as it is filled with action-packed photos and videos of her training routines, sparring sessions, and bouts. Besides her martial arts content, Dern also shares snippets from her travels, behind-the-scenes glimpses into her personal life, and playful photos with her husband and child. Dern’s Instagram posts are often accompanied by heartfelt captions, revealing her passion for martial arts and her dedication to inspiring others.
On Twitter, Mackenzie Dern has a strong following of over 100,000 fans, where she actively tweets about her martial arts career and shares her thoughts on various social issues. Unlike her Instagram, Dern’s Twitter is more conversational, with lots of interactions with fans and retweets from other industry professionals. Dern’s Twitter feed is also peppered with promotional materials, including sponsorships and merchandise, giving fans exclusive access to her brand.
Finally, Mackenzie Dern is also active on Reddit, where she engages with her fans and participates in discussions about martial arts, training, and nutrition. Reddit allows Dern to directly communicate with her fans and provide insights into her training regimens and lifestyle. Dern’s Reddit posts are often lengthy and detailed, providing fans with valuable information about the world of martial arts.
In conclusion
This beautiful lady’s social media presence is a reflection of her dedication, discipline, and passion for martial arts. Through her Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit, Dern engages with her fans, shares her experiences, and promotes her brand, allowing fans to get exclusive insights into her training routines, diet, and lifestyle. With her social media savvy skills, Dern has successfully established herself as one of the most exciting personalities in the world of martial arts.
What Can We Learn From Mackenzie Dern?
Mackenzie Dern is not just a skilled martial artist, but also a role model to young aspiring athletes, especially women. Her hard work and dedication towards her passion is reflected in her successful career and massive social media following. Moreover, her social media presence is exemplary, and her following on various platforms shows her ability to connect with her followers in a meaningful way.
One of the most significant takeaways from Dern’s career is her discipline and focus. Behind her success lies years of grueling training, dieting, and strategizing, which she willingly pursued with determination and resilience. Despite facing setbacks, Dern persisted and continued to improve both her skills and her mindset. Her hard work and dedication continue to inspire and motivate others.
Another valuable lesson that Dern’s career provides is the importance of social media in building a successful personal brand. Dern has successfully leveraged a variety of social media platforms to engage with her followers, promote her brand, and provide insights into her life and career. She has managed to create a loyal fanbase by regularly sharing her thoughts, training routines, achievements, and travel experiences. By doing so, she has successfully established herself as a personality in the world of martial arts and garnered several endorsements.
The martial arts community can also learn from Dern’s personal life. Besides being a fierce competitor, Dern is a wife and mother, setting an outstanding example of balancing personal and professional life. She has proved that a woman can be successful in her career while still prioritizing her family and maintaining a loving relationship. Her openness about her personal life on social media also provides a platform for her followers to relate to her as someone who faces personal and professional challenges, providing courage and hope for others.
Conclusion
Mackenzie is more than just a talented martial artist; she is a role model and inspiration for people from all walks of life. Through her work ethic, social media presence, and personal life, she has shown that with hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, anything is possible. Her commitment to perfecting her craft and overcoming obstacles serves as an excellent example for those who aspire to a career in martial arts or any other field.