Rare pictures of Mackenzie Dern and her family

Mackenzie Dern is an MMA fighter that climbed the ladder in the UFC. Here, she showed her technical ability by submitting a number of high level opponents and proving her grappling dominance in the process. To those that know, this should come as no surprise. After all, Dern is the daughter of Megaton Diaz, who is a coral belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Put another way, this means her father has trained BJJ for well over 30 years.

In fact, by the time Dern had stepped into the MMA world, she was also a multiple time BJJ world champion and black belt. Here, she had won the coveted ADCC tournament which showed just how good she was. By adding striking to her game, she became a truly rounded martial artist who is not to be messed with.

Interestingly, Dern’s husband is Wesley Santos, who is a pro surfer. Together they have a child which meant that Dern was one a few women who fought in the UFC after giving birth. For those wondering, Mackenzie Dern’s father is Brazilian, however she was raised in the US. Bizarrely, she used to speak with a US accent, before slowly sounding more Brazilian. This could be due to her Brazilian husband but it still makes little sense. As a result, some people have mocked her broken English accent at times.

Mackenzie Dern poses on the beach at night.

In the gi with her black belt, next to her father Megaton Diaz.

Another beach shot.

Mackenzie Dern with her young child.

Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the kimono.

With her husband, Wesley Santos.

In the gym training MMA.

Mackenzie Dern smiling with her husband and daughter.

A young Mackenzie Dern in her BJJ competitor days.

After a tough MMA sparring session.

Looking happy.

Yet another beach shot.