Zhang Weili, the reigning UFC strawweight champion, has been honored as the Female Fighter of the Year at the 2024 World MMA Awards. This prestigious accolade marks another milestone in Zhang’s illustrious career as she continues to break barriers and set new standards in the world of mixed martial arts.
Historic Achievement
Weili’s journey to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. She made history as the first female Asian athlete to become a champion in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Her rise to prominence has elevated her status as a top-tier athlete and brought significant attention to the sport in Asia.
Dominant Performances
Throughout 2024, Zhang has showcased her exceptional skills and tenacity in the octagon. Her most recent victory came at UFC 300, where she successfully defended her strawweight title against compatriot Yan Xiaonan by unanimous decision. This win solidified her position as one of the most dominant fighters in the division.
Previous Honors
This is not the first time Zhang has been recognized for her outstanding performances. She was named MMA Junkie’s Female Fighter of the Year in 2022 and received The Sporting News Women’s MMA Fighter of the Year award. These accolades reflect her consistent excellence and dedication to the sport.
A Message of Gratitude
In a heartfelt video message, Zhang expressed her gratitude to her fans and supporters. “Thank you for voting for me as the best female fighter of 2024,” she said. “Thank you to all the fans that voted for me. Thank you to everyone at Fighters Only. This year was a great year, and next year will be even better.”
Looking Ahead
As Weili continues to dominate the strawweight division, her achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work and the relentless pursuit of excellence. With her eyes set on future challenges, Zhang is poised to further cement her legacy as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history.
