In the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), few fights have captivated fans as much as the legendary showdown between Joanna Jędrzejczyk and Zhang Weili. Their epic clash in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Women’s Strawweight Division was more than just a contest of skill; it was a display of heart, determination, and sheer willpower. But in the debate over who is the true queen of the division, the battle remains as fierce as ever.
## Joanna Jędrzejczyk: The Dominant Champion
Joanna Jędrzejczyk, the Polish sensation, revolutionized the women’s strawweight division. With an extensive background in Muay Thai and kickboxing, she became known for her aggressive striking, high-volume output, and impeccable takedown defense. Her reign as the UFC Strawweight Champion from 2015 to 2017 remains one of the most dominant in UFC history.
During her prime, Joanna dismantled some of the toughest competitors, including Cláudia Gadelha, Jéssica Andrade, and Karolina Kowalkiewicz. She showcased a technical striking ability unmatched in the division, overwhelming her opponents with relentless pressure. However, her undefeated streak came to an end when she lost the belt to Rose Namajunas in 2017, followed by a failed attempt to reclaim it in their rematch.
Despite these setbacks, Joanna never backed down from a challenge. Her warrior spirit and elite skills ensured she remained a top contender, and when she faced Zhang Weili in one of the greatest fights in UFC history, she proved she was still one of the best.
## Zhang Weili: The Chinese Powerhouse
On the other side of the octagon stood Zhang Weili, China’s first-ever UFC champion. A fighter with explosive power, versatility, and incredible resilience, Zhang quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the strawweight division.
She made history by capturing the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship in 2019, knocking out Jéssica Andrade in just 42 seconds. Her blend of striking, wrestling, and grappling made her one of the most well-rounded fighters in the division. Her toughness and adaptability were fully tested when she defended her belt against Joanna Jędrzejczyk at UFC 248, a fight that cemented both women as legends.
Zhang’s ability to withstand Joanna’s relentless pressure and deliver punishing strikes of her own made the fight an unforgettable war. She emerged victorious via split decision, but many fans and analysts debated just how close the fight truly was.
## The War at UFC 248: A Fight for the Ages
On March 7, 2020, Joanna and Zhang met inside the octagon at UFC 248 in what would become one of the greatest fights in MMA history. From the opening bell, both women traded brutal strikes, showing no fear or hesitation. Joanna’s technical striking and combinations were met with Zhang’s powerful counters and relentless forward pressure.
Throughout five intense rounds, neither fighter backed down. The damage both sustained was evident, especially on Joanna’s face, which swelled grotesquely due to Zhang’s heavy shots. Despite the brutal exchanges, Joanna continued to press forward, landing precise combinations and showcasing the championship mindset that made her a dominant force for years.
In the end, Zhang Weili won by split decision, a verdict that sparked endless debates. Some believed Zhang’s power made the difference, while others argued that Joanna’s volume and precision should have earned her the victory. Regardless of the outcome, both fighters earned respect for delivering a battle that will be remembered for decades.
## A Rivalry That Redefined Women’s MMA
Joanna vs. Zhang was more than just a fight—it was a historic moment in women’s MMA. It proved that female fighters could put on wars just as thrilling as their male counterparts. The technical skill, heart, and durability they displayed raised the bar for women’s MMA, inspiring future generations of fighters.
Their rivalry was also a cultural phenomenon. Zhang’s rise represented the growing influence of Chinese MMA, while Joanna remained a symbol of European dominance in the sport. Their clash had worldwide implications, proving that the strawweight division had the potential to be the most exciting weight class in women’s MMA.
## Who Is the True Queen?
The debate over the true queen of the division remains open. Joanna’s reign and technical mastery make her one of the greatest female fighters of all time. Zhang’s power, adaptability, and championship mentality have solidified her as an elite competitor.
While Zhang holds the head-to-head advantage, Joanna’s impact on the division cannot be denied. She paved the way for future champions, showing what was possible with high-level striking and unwavering confidence. Zhang, on the other hand, has proven that a new generation of fighters is here to take over.
With Joanna now retired, Zhang has continued to dominate, reclaiming the strawweight title and showcasing new skills. However, if one thing is certain, it’s that their legendary fight at UFC 248 ensured that both women will forever be remembered as queens of the division.
## Conclusion: A Legacy of Greatness
The battle between Joanna Jędrzejczyk and Zhang Weili was more than just a fight—it was an epic war that defined an era. Joanna’s technical brilliance and Zhang’s relentless power created an unforgettable rivalry.
While Zhang may have won their historic fight, Joanna’s contributions to MMA remain unparalleled. Whether you believe the true queen is the Polish striking machine or the Chinese powerhouse, one thing is undeniable: their fight changed the sport forever.
In the end, both warriors left everything inside the octagon, proving that they are not just fighters, but legends of the sport.