Gillian Robertson identifies what she believes are Mackenzie Dern's biggest weaknesses: "Once it starts getting to a hi Via @arielhelwani on X

What happened: Gillian Robertson laid out what she believes are Mackenzie Dern's biggest weaknesses as a mixed martial artist. Robertson argued that as competition rises, Dern has had trouble imposing her grappling and getting fights to the positions where she is most dangerous. She framed it as a broader problem of translating elite jiu-jitsu into MMA success.

Why it matters: The remarks add fuel to an escalating back-and-forth between the two strawweights, after Dern recently questioned Robertson's jiu-jitsu credentials and Robertson responded in kind. A war of words between ranked 115-pounders sharpens the case for an eventual matchup and gives each fighter a clear stylistic narrative to sell. Robertson's critique cuts at the exact area — grappling — where Dern's reputation is strongest.

What to watch: Watch for Dern's response and for any sign the UFC moves to book the two strawweights against each other.

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