Zhang Weili was born on August 13, 1989, in Handan, Hebei, China. She grew up in a modest family, with her father working as a retired miner and her mother as a homemaker. From an early age, Zhang showed an immense passion for martial arts, inspired by the action-packed Kung Fu films that dominated Chinese cinema. Her childhood was spent in an environment where discipline and perseverance were highly valued, which later became the foundation of her success in mixed martial arts.
At the age of six, Zhang began training in Shaolin Kung Fu under a local master, where she learned the fundamentals of martial arts. Her early years were filled with extensive training in various sports, including football, table tennis, and athletics. Recognizing her talent, her parents enrolled her in a specialized martial arts school in Handan when she was twelve. There, she trained rigorously in Sanda, a Chinese kickboxing style that incorporates throws and strikes, and Shuai Jiao, a form of traditional Chinese wrestling. She quickly rose through the ranks and earned multiple championships in her province, proving herself as an exceptional athlete.
However, her journey was not without obstacles. A recurring back injury forced her to abandon her dreams of pursuing a career in Sanda. This setback led her to explore other opportunities, and at seventeen, she moved to Beijing in search of work. She took up various jobs, including working as a kindergarten teacher, hotel receptionist, security guard, and even a supermarket cashier. In 2010, she landed a job as a fitness instructor at a local gym, which reignited her love for combat sports. It was here that she was introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts, marking the beginning of her career in professional fighting.
Mixed Martial Arts Career
Early MMA Career and Rise to Prominence
Zhang Weili made her professional MMA debut in 2013, competing in China’s regional circuits. Her first fight was against Meng Bo, where she suffered a unanimous decision loss. Instead of being discouraged, this defeat fueled her determination to improve. She went on to embark on a spectacular sixteen-fight winning streak, solidifying her reputation as one of the most formidable fighters in Asia.
During this period, she won multiple championships, including the Kunlun Fight Female Strawweight Championship, which she successfully defended several times. She also secured the Top FC Strawweight Championship in 2017, gaining recognition as an elite-level fighter. Her ability to blend striking and grappling techniques made her a well-rounded and dangerous competitor in the sport.
UFC Debut and Championship Glory
Zhang Weili made her UFC debut on August 4, 2018, against Danielle Taylor, where she secured a unanimous decision victory. Her aggressive style, coupled with her precise striking and relentless grappling, made her an instant fan favorite. She continued her ascent in the UFC strawweight division, defeating elite contenders such as Jessica Aguilar and Tecia Torres.
On August 31, 2019, Zhang made history by becoming the first Chinese fighter to win a UFC championship. She defeated Jéssica Andrade via first-round TKO in her home country, China, to claim the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship. This victory was a landmark moment in MMA history, as Zhang’s triumph placed Chinese mixed martial arts on the global map.
In her first title defense, she faced former champion Joanna Jędrzejczyk in what is considered one of the greatest fights in women’s MMA history. The five-round war showcased Zhang’s resilience, striking accuracy, and toughness. She won the bout via a closely contested split decision, further cementing her legacy as one of the best fighters in the division.
Losing and Regaining the Title
In 2021, Zhang faced her toughest challenge when she fought Rose Namajunas for the UFC Strawweight Championship. She suffered a devastating first-round knockout, losing her title in a shocking upset. A rematch was set later that year, but Zhang fell short once again, losing by unanimous decision. Many doubted whether she could reclaim her former glory, but Zhang remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence.
Her comeback fight against Joanna Jędrzejczyk in 2022 saw her deliver a stunning spinning back fist knockout, proving she was still a top contender. Later that year, she faced Carla Esparza for the strawweight championship and won via submission, reclaiming her title as the two-time UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion.
Latest News About Zhang Weili
As of February 2025, Zhang Weili continues to dominate the strawweight division. In her latest fight at UFC 312, she successfully defended her title against Tatiana Suarez in a highly anticipated bout. The fight showcased Zhang’s superior striking and elite grappling, earning her a unanimous decision victory. This win solidifies her status as one of the greatest strawweight fighters in MMA history, and fans eagerly anticipate her next challenge.
Physical Appearance and Height
Zhang Weili stands 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters) tall and competes in the strawweight division at 115 pounds (52 kilograms). She has a 63-inch (160 cm) reach, allowing her to execute precise strikes and powerful takedowns. Zhang’s athletic physique, combined with her remarkable speed and strength, makes her a formidable competitor. Her well-conditioned body enables her to execute high-intensity fights, maintaining a balance between power and endurance.
Zhang Weili’s Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Zhang Weili’s estimated net worth is $2 million. The majority of her wealth comes from fight purses, bonuses, and endorsement deals. She has secured sponsorships with major brands like Estée Lauder, Audi, Hyperice, Under Armour, and Heilan Home. Her success in the UFC has made her one of China’s most marketable athletes, further increasing her earnings through sponsorships and promotional activities.
Social Media Accounts
Zhang Weili is active on various social media platforms, where she engages with fans and shares updates on her training and fights.
Instagram: @zhangweilimma
Twitter: @zhangweilimma
Facebook: Zhang Weili MMA
