Mackenzie Dern Announces Pregnancy, Putting MMA Career On Hold

Rising MMA star Mackenzie Dern‘s perceived ascension into the elite levels of female MMA will have to wait.

This morning, Dern announced on her official Instagram account that she was pregnant. Check out her full statement here:

God makes everything so perfect! I am so happy to be able to share this news! I’m going to be a Mom! I love so much our family and now I have one more HUGE motivation for inside and outside the ring!! Thank you God for this blessing ?? @santoswesley ❤️ I also want to thank all my fans and sponsors for the support during all the life phases and I can’t wait to be back in the ring! ??

Dern has fought twice in the UFC, defeating Ashley Yoder in her first bout at UFC 222. She then made a quick turnaround to compete at last May’s UFC 224, where she submitted Amanda Cooper.

Now, however, her return will be delayed indefinitely. She’s still young and obviously looks forward to her next fight after her child is born.