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VIDEO: First Chinese UFC Champion Zhang Weili Receives a Red-Carpet Treatment on Her Return to Hometown in China

Published 01/18/2023, 12:25 PM EST

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The Current and two-time UFC strawweight champion Zhang Weili received a grand welcome in her hometown of Handan, China. Her hometown residents, who put up some spectacular events to commemorate her UFC title, celebrated the first-ever Chinese UFC champion’s win. Weili put on an amazing performance at UFC 281 after beating former champion Carla Esparza with a rear-naked choke submission move. It marked the start of her second reign with the strawweight title. Weili won her first championship in 2019 after defeating Jessica Andrade with an amazing first-round knockout. She has proved to be one of the best fighters to hail from China.

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Zhang Weili started fighting professionally in 2013. She is a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has a background in Shaolin Kung Fu. Weili boasts a UFC record of 23 wins and 3 losses. ‘Magnum’ is also ranked 3rd in UFC’s women’s pound-for-pound rankings. The UFC posted a video of her return to China and how she was celebrated by the locals in Handan.

Zhang Weili receives a grand welcome in Handan

Zhang Weili is not just a Chinese icon, but also one of the best Asian combat sports athletes in the world. She was greeted like a hero on her return to her hometown. ‘Magnum’ was seen interacting with the local fans, the local police force, and some young female athletes. Thousands of people came in to see her display the UFC strawweight championship belt.

 

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It was Weili‘s first time going back home in 6 years. Her influence as an athlete in China could be seen in the grand gesture of the Handan residents and the local authorities. ‘Magnum’ has been a symbol of women’s empowerment in China ever since she became UFC champion for the first time in 2019.

Zhang Weili is often considered one of the most well-rounded fighters in the strawweight division. She has become one of the favorite female fighters among MMA fans. In addition to her exciting fighting style, she has shown a willingness to brave the fire and a personable demeanor that has drawn spectators to her.

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What are your thoughts on the current UFC strawweight champion? Drop your comments below.

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Written by:

Himanga Mahanta

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Himanga is a UFC author at EssentiallySports. He interned as a WWE author at Sportsmanor before joining EssentiallySports to pursue his interest as a sports journalist. Himanga is a big fan of UFC's Conor McGregor and considers him the most entertaining combat sports athlete of the 21st century.
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Edited by:

Vineet Nandwana