Chinese mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Zhang Weili, who made history as the first woman from Asia to become a Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) titleholder, has revealed a new challenge she faces outside the octagon: significant pressure from her parents to get married. This familial expectation has even led her to explore seeking a boyfriend through dating applications.
In a candid 40-minute interview recently posted on social media, Zhang Weili, who is currently 37 years old, openly discussed the unique pressures she encounters beyond the confines of the fighting cage. When directly questioned about her family’s primary dissatisfaction regarding her current life, the celebrated fighter quickly responded, “It’s that I can’t find a partner.”
She disclosed that around mid-2026, as her family’s concern about her relationship status intensified, and under direct influence from her parents, the former Strawweight champion (who competes in the 48-52 kg division) embarked on a search for a boyfriend using various dating apps and matchmaking websites. Initially, she hesitated to register with her real identity, fearing recognition from the platforms or her vast fanbase. However, the strict requirement of these services for genuine identification ultimately compelled her to use her true name.
Regarding her preferences for a prospective partner, Zhang Weili stated she desires a man with a good personality, someone with whom she can establish strong communication and mutual understanding, and who possesses a decent appearance. She further clarified that she is not concerned about a partner’s income or financial contribution to the household, provided they can fulfill each other’s needs in daily life.
With a touch of humor, Zhang Weili remarked that the process of finding a boyfriend has proven to be even more challenging than competing in an MMA fight. She explained that many potential partners are apprehensive, fearing domestic violence due to her profession as a fighter.
On the professional front, after an impressive title defense followed by two consecutive losses, Zhang Weili successfully reclaimed the Strawweight belt from Carla Esparza in 2022. She then went on to defend her championship title three additional times against formidable opponents: Amanda Lemos, Yan Xiaonan, and Tatiana Suarez over the subsequent three years.
A significant milestone in her career occurred in March 2026 when her historic and thrilling bout against Joanna Jedrzejczyk was deservingly inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, marking a groundbreaking first for the women’s division. Currently, Zhang Weili continues her rigorous training regimen and is anticipated to make her return to the UFC octagon next year.
