Jandiroba targets third Dern fight after calling Suarez clash a 'clash of titans'

Virna Jandiroba has set her sights on a third fight with UFC strawweight champion Mackenzie Dern, but first she must get past Tatiana Suarez at UFC Vegas 124 on 7 November. Jandiroba (23-4) has completed two full training camps ahead of the bout, which she describes as a “clash of titans” given the contrasting grappling styles on display.

Suarez (12-1) is a decorated wrestler, and Jandiroba — a specialist in Brazilian jiu-jitsu — acknowledges the challenge that presents. To prepare, she drew on the experience of Demian Maia, a fellow Brazilian grappler who faced elite wrestlers throughout his own UFC career.

“I was part of the previous training camp with Demian, who faced some great wrestlers throughout his career, and he gave me some valuable insights. I usually say it will be a clash of titans,” Jandiroba said.

Jandiroba has twice come up short against Dern. Their first meeting in December 2020 went Dern’s way, and the rematch in October 2025 — contested for the vacant strawweight title — also ended in a unanimous decision loss for Jandiroba. Despite that record, she is confident a third opportunity is within reach if she wins in November.

With former champion Zhang Weili’s return to the Octagon appearing uncertain, Jandiroba believes the path to another title shot could open quickly. Dern has indicated she plans to make a defence between January and February, a window that suits Jandiroba’s timeline.

“Honestly, I don’t see Weili returning to the Octagon anytime soon. Since Mackenzie has already said she intends to defend the belt between January and February, that would be an excellent timeframe for me,” Jandiroba said. “In fact, I only need one week of rest after this fight, and I’ll be ready for the rematch in January or February.”

A win over Suarez — one of the most formidable wrestlers in the strawweight division — would make a compelling case for that shot, setting up what would be a decisive rubber match between Jandiroba and the champion.