Sat Oct 25 19:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Zhang Weili Vacates Strawweight Title, Jandiroba and Dern to Clash for Vacant Belt at UFC 321

LAS VEGAS, NV – The UFC’s women’s strawweight division is entering a new era as Zhang Weili has vacated her title to challenge Valentina Shevchenko for the women’s flyweight championship. This move has dramatically reshaped the landscape of the 115-pound division, paving the way for a highly anticipated showdown between Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern for the vacant belt at UFC 321 this Saturday.

Jandiroba, currently ranked No. 1 in the division, and Dern, ranked No. 5, have emerged as the frontrunners after Weili’s departure. The two fighters are set for a rematch of their 2020 fight, which Dern won by unanimous decision.

Weili’s dominance in the strawweight division has been undeniable, boasting a 6-2 record in UFC title fights. While some fighters appear to welcome Weili’s departure, Dern openly admitted she would not be ready to face Weili for the belt at this moment. She believes winning the title against Jandiroba would provide the boost needed to be prepared for a potential future fight with Weili.

“I don’t think I was ready to fight her if they called me for the belt right now,” Dern stated in an interview. “But winning the belt against Virna and what that could change in the training and the mindset… I think that will help me be prepared for her if she does come back sooner or later.”

Despite a previous loss to Dern, Jandiroba expressed confidence in her ability to compete with Weili. “She’s always game and bringing her ‘A’ game,” Jandiroba said. “She’s complete in every area. I think that I would be ready to fight her.”

The stakes are high at UFC 321. Weili’s upcoming fight against Shevchenko is a close contest, with both fighters at even odds according to BetMGM. Should Shevchenko win, Weili may return to the strawweight division to reclaim her title, immediately setting up a potential clash with the newly crowned champion.

UFC 321 promises high-stakes action in the co-main event, setting the stage for a new chapter in the women’s strawweight division.

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