The epic clash between Joanna Jedrzejczyk and Zhang Weili has been immortalized in mixed martial arts history. The UFC has officially inducted their legendary March 2020 encounter at UFC 248 into the Fight Wing of the UFC Hall of Fame for the Class of 2026, as reported by Newsweek. The announcement, made during a recent UFC broadcast, marks a significant milestone for women’s combat sports.
A Historic First for Women’s MMA
This induction represents the first time a women’s bout has been selected for the UFC Hall of Fame’s Fight Wing. The strawweight title fight is widely regarded by fans and pundits alike as one of the greatest mixed martial arts contests of all time. According to Fightful, the grueling five-round war saw Zhang retain her championship via a razor-thin split decision. The sheer brutality of the match left Jedrzejczyk with a massive, disfiguring hematoma on her forehead, an image that has since become synonymous with the sheer determination required to compete at the highest level.
“Two Talented Savages”
UFC President Dana White was effusive in his praise when discussing the historical significance of the fight. As noted by Cageside Press, White characterized the bout as “incredible,” adding, “You had two talented savages that wanted the strawweight title more than anything and neither one of them backed down.” The two fighters would meet again at UFC 272, where Zhang secured a victory via a spinning back fist, prompting Jedrzejczyk’s eventual retirement and her individual induction into the Hall’s Modern Wing in 2024.
What This Means
Inducting this specific fight cements the undeniable draw and marketability of women’s MMA. It validates the UFC’s investment in the women’s divisions and sets a towering benchmark for future championship bouts. As Zhang Weili continues her active career, this Hall of Fame nod serves as both a capstone to Jedrzejczyk’s legacy and a permanent reminder of the physical sacrifices required to achieve greatness inside the Octagon.