Joselyne Edwards stands ready as the official backup fighter for the highly anticipated UFC 334 women’s bantamweight title bout between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes, scheduled for November 14 at Madison Square Garden. Edwards, boasting an 18-6 MMA record and 9-4 in the UFC, is a leading contender in the bantamweight division and could step in if either Harrison or Nunes is unable to compete in what many regard as one of the most significant fights in women’s MMA history.
The fight features Harrison, an Olympic judo gold medalist and two-time PFL tournament champion with a 19-1 MMA record (3-0 UFC), defending her belt against Nunes, a UFC Hall of Famer widely considered the greatest female MMA fighter ever with a 23-5 MMA record (16-2 UFC). Edwards is thrilled by the opportunity to be the potential replacement, feeling she earned the spot through her current momentum and success.
Speaking to Hablemos MMA in Spanish, Edwards expressed confidence and readiness: “Who else? No other girl has done what I’ve done with my winning streak. I’m winning decisively—with knockouts and finishes. If not me, then who? I don’t wish harm on anyone, but if someone can’t fight, I’ll be ready. The winner will have to face me.”
Currently riding a five-fight win streak that includes two knockouts and two submissions, Edwards last defeated Norma Dumont in April, halting Dumont’s six-fight winning run. While some believed Ailin Perez, who has won seven straight fights, might deserve the role, all of her victories have been by decision, unlike Edwards’ finishes.
Despite the relatively short notice—less than two weeks until the event—Edwards has been training rigorously since the Harrison vs. Nunes matchup was announced months ago. After her last fight, she stayed in shape, prepared for potential bouts, and was aware she might be called upon as backup. She mentioned attempts to secure the fight earlier in the year, including offers to Julianna Peña, who declined, which left Edwards in position to step in.
To compete for the title, Edwards will need to make the 135-pound limit without the usual one-pound allowance for non-title fights. Although she has missed weight three times in the UFC, most recently in 2024, Edwards is confident she can make weight this week and maintain her strength and health heading into the potential fight.
“I’m super low in weight but strong,” Edwards said. “Since missing weight in the past, I’ve worked hard to stay on track. I’m a professional, and during my current streak, I’ve made 135.5 pounds without even trying to be at 135 flat. My weight is good, and I’m ready.”
Fan Take: This development highlights the increasing depth and competitiveness of the women’s bantamweight division, showcasing fighters like Edwards who are tough, hungry, and ready to seize big opportunities. Having such a reliable backup ensures the monumental Harrison vs. Nunes title fight is protected, preserving its significance regardless of unforeseen setbacks, which is crucial for the sport’s continued growth and legitimacy.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
