UFC Strawweight Champion: Who Holds The Title?
The UFC Strawweight division is one of the most exciting and competitive in mixed martial arts. This weight class features skilled athletes known for their striking, grappling, and relentless determination.
Current UFC Strawweight Champion
The current UFC Strawweight Champion is Weili Zhang. Zhang regained the title by defeating Carla Esparza at UFC 281 in November 2022 and then defended the title against Amanda Lemos at UFC 292.
Key Facts About Weili Zhang
- Nationality: Chinese
- Fighting Style: A well-rounded fighter with a background in Sanda, known for her striking power and grappling skills.
- Notable Wins: Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Jéssica Andrade, Carla Esparza, and Amanda Lemos.
History of the UFC Strawweight Championship
The UFC Strawweight division was established in 2014. Here’s a brief look at the history of the title:
- Carla Esparza: The inaugural champion, winning the title at The Ultimate Fighter 20 Finale.
- Joanna Jędrzejczyk: Held the title for a significant period, defending it multiple times and becoming one of the division's most dominant champions.
- Rose Namajunas: A two-time champion known for her technical striking and submissions.
- Jéssica Andrade: Briefly held the title, defeating Rose Namajunas with a slam knockout.
Notable Title Fights
Some of the most memorable title fights in the division include:
- Joanna Jędrzejczyk vs. Weili Zhang (UFC 248): A back-and-forth war that is widely considered one of the greatest women's fights in MMA history.
- Rose Namajunas vs. Zhang Weili (UFC 261 & UFC 268): Two closely contested fights, with Namajunas winning the first and Zhang winning the second.
The UFC Strawweight division continues to evolve, with new contenders emerging and established champions defending their titles. Keep an eye on this exciting weight class for future developments and thrilling matchups. To stay updated, visit the official UFC website.
