Polish · Olsztyn, Poland · Born 18 August 1987Polish mixed martial artist and former UFC Women's Strawweight Champion, known for her striking prowess and record-setting title reign with six defenses.
Joanna Jedrzejczyk was born in Olsztyn, Poland on 1 August 1987. A former Muay Thai world champion, she became UFC strawweight champion in March 2015 and made six consecutive title defences — the most in UFC women's history. Her combination of elite striking, volume and pressure was unmatched at 115lbs during her peak. She defeated Carla Esparza, Jessica Aguilar, Claudia Gadelha (twice), Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Cynthia Calvillo. Her five-round war with Zhang Weili in 2020 is widely regarded as the greatest women's fight in MMA history. She lost her title to Rose Namajunas in 2017, attempted multiple comebacks, and retired in 2022.
She holds the record for most consecutive title defenses in UFC Women's Strawweight division history with five successful defenses.
How They Played
Jędrzejczyk is renowned for her elite striking abilities, particularly her Muay Thai background which gave her devastating elbows, knees, and precise punching combinations. She utilized exceptional footwork, distance management, and high-volume striking to overwhelm opponents while maintaining strong takedown defense. Her fighting style emphasized technical precision, relentless pace, and the ability to break down opponents with accumulative damage over multiple rounds.
Lasting Impact
Jędrzejczyk established the UFC Women's Strawweight division as one of the most competitive and exciting weight classes through her dominant championship reign and technical excellence. She elevated the profile of women's MMA in Europe and inspired a generation of Polish fighters to pursue mixed martial arts.
Career Honours
- UFC Women's Strawweight Champion (6 defences)
- Muay Thai World Champion multiple times
- UFC Fight of the Night multiple times
Polish Athletes