Zhang Weili, a celebrated Chinese mixed martial artist born on August 13th, 1989, has held the title of UFC Women's Strawweight Champion twice. She stands as a formidable competitor and currently holds the #2 spot in the UFC women's pound-for-pound rankings.
Weili's professional MMA journey began in 2013 with a loss to Meng Bo in her debut fight. However, this setback didn't hinder her spirit, and she bounced back with an incredible 21-fight win streak. Her rise to prominence included capturing the Kunlun Fight Female Strawweight Championship in May 2017 after defeating Simone Duarte with a second-round TKO.
Weili's dominance continued as she successfully defended her Kunlun Fight title against Aline Sattelmayer in June 2017, winning by unanimous decision. Her thirst for victory didn't stop there – in July 2017, she added the vacant Top FC Strawweight Championship to her collection by defeating Seo Ye-dam via TKO in the second round.
In August 2017, Weili defended her KLF title once more, defeating Marilia Santos with another impressive second-round TKO. With a remarkable 16-1 record in KLF, Weili's reputation as a force to be reckoned with was undeniable. Building on her momentum, Weili transitioned to the UFC, marking a major turning point in her already accomplished career.
Also Read: How old is Zhang Weili?
Zhang Weili Fighting Style
Zhang Weili's fighting style is a blend of many martial arts disciplines. Her foundation in Sanda, a Chinese martial art, provides a strong base for striking and takedowns, while her training in kickboxing and Muay Thai allows her to deliver devastating punches, kicks, and elbows.
Weili’s background in Shuai Jiao gives her an edge in clinch work and takedown defense. To further enhance her skills, she holds a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, allowing for strong submissions and ground control.
Zhang Weili UFC Career
Zhang Weili made her UFC debut in 2018, securing three consecutive wins against Danielle Taylor, Jessica Aguilar, and Tecia Torres. In 2019, she defeated Jéssica Andrade to become the first-ever Chinese UFC champion. Weili’s first title defense was a legendary battle against Joanna Jedrzejczyk at UFC 248, which she won by split decision.
However, she lost her title to Rose Namajunas in 2021 via knockout. A rematch with Namajunas ended in another loss. Weili bounced back in 2022 with a knockout victory against Jedrzejczyk and later that year regained her championship title by submitting Carla Esparza. Weili defended her title successfully against Amanda Lemos in 2023 and made her second consecutive defense against fellow Chinese fighter Yan Xiaonan at UFC 300.
Last Updated On April 14, 2024
FAQs Zhang weili Fighting Style
A. Zhang Weili is a diverse fighter who is skilled in Sanda, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and Jiu-Jitsu.
A. Zhang Weili has lost 3 times in her professional MMA career, including 2 losses in UFC.
A. Zhang Weili is a Chinese national.
A. Zhang Weili holds the UFC Women’s Strawweight title.
A. Zhang Weili’s next fight is against Yan Xiaonan at UFC 300 on April 13, 2024.
