Why is Mackenzie Dern's father nicknamed 'Megaton'? A look into Wellington Dias' sobriquet

Wellington Dias, the father of UFC star Mackenzie Dern, is a force to be reckoned with in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) world. Other than achieving competitive success himself, Dias has helped several athletes, including his daughter, to achieve their potential in the grappling department. He continues to be an important aspect of Dern's support system in her professional MMA career.

---

Why is Mackenzie Dern's father nicknamed 'Megaton'?

Dias boasts an illustrious career, not only as the oldest competitor and first coral belt at the IBJJF World Championship but also for his explosive throws that earned him the moniker 'Megaton' early on. His judo prowess was likened to the force of a megaton bomb, solidifying the name that would follow him throughout his career.

Beyond his competition accolades, which include black belt status in 1996 and multiple championship wins, Dias' impact extends far and wide. He is a renowned instructor and coach, founding his own academy, Megaton Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in Phoenix, Arizona.

Dias has been dedicated to the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and his commitment has not only shaped his own journey but also nurtured the talent of his daughter, Mackenzie Dern. Her success in the UFC is proof of the skills and values instilled by her father, the 'Megaton' of BJJ.

---

When 'Megaton' Dias jokingly said he wanted Mackenzie Dern to pursue a career in modeling

After a successful career in jiu-jitsu, Mackenzie Dern transitioned to MMA and eventually made her UFC debut with a split decision win over Ashley Yoder in March 2018.

Following Dern's victory, Wellington Dias expressed confidence that his daughter would reach the top of the division. However, he revealed that he often jokingly teased her about pursuing a career in modeling instead of getting "punched in the face" in MMA. In an interview with MMA Fighting, 'Megaton' said:

"But I think that’s her destiny. Going from jiu-jitsu to MMA is the natural transition. But I always joked about her being a model instead of fighting. ‘Do you want to get punched in the face? You’re a beautiful girl, why get punched in the face?’ But we’re a family of fighters so I can handle it, even if it’s my daughter punching and getting punched." [H/T MMA Figthting]

As of January 2025, Dern is the No.6-ranked UFC strawweight contender. She is coming off a unanimous decision win over Loopy Godinez and will face Amanda Ribas at UFC Vegas 101 on Jan. 11.