EXCLUSIVE: Norma Dumont reveals she could have faced Amanda Nunes for the UFC interim title.

Internal UFC politics have definitely not been easy for Norma Dumont . Ranked third in the bantamweight division (up to 61,2 kg) and on a six-fight winning streak, the Minas Gerais native has been struggling to find suitable opponents for a title shot for several years now. Furthermore, she has also witnessed the rise of several other names to the top of the division. Despite this, the fight against Joselyne Edwards this Saturday (25) emerges as another opportunity to extend her winning streak and finally become the number one contender.

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Amid this chaotic context, during an exclusive interview with SUPER LUTAS , the Brazilian fighter spoke about next weekend's fight and also gave interesting details about her aspirations for the world title.

Amanda Nunes vs. Norma Dumont for the interim title?

Despite being the highest-ranked fighter to never have challenged for the belt, Norma didn't have the opportunity to be Kayla Harrison 's first challenger , who took the division by storm by submitting Juliana Peña and becoming champion last June. In fact, Amanda Nunes returned from retirement to formalize a confrontation with her former training partner, initially planned for UFC 324. With the American's injury, the opportunity arose for an all-Brazilian duel for the interim title, something that Nunes reportedly refused.

“I have a good relationship with the UFC. They even tried for an interim title with Amanda, that possibility existed. Actually, she preferred to wait for Kayla Harrison . In backstage conversations, I heard that they first presented the offer to her, and she said no. She could have chosen to fight for the interim title now, but she preferred to wait for Kayla. I understand her goals, but obviously I was frustrated. I think if you want to fight, you have to come and fight everyone, period. But, it's okay. I recognize that it's a fight that will sell more,” she stated.

Several opponents

Norma Dumont backstage at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

This Saturday’s duel (25), the co-main event of the night, perfectly exemplifies the situation experienced by the Brazilian. Originally, Norma was to face Yana Santos , fifth in the category ranking. The Russian ended up being forced to leave the card due to an injury and now she faces Joselyne Edwards , who in turn occupies 11th place. Despite the inconvenience, none of this shakes the fighter’s confidence.

“I’m already used to it. I start camp with one opponent and then it changes. Sometimes the date changes. Yana’s and Joselyne’s fights are completely different, but since I’m a very versatile athlete, I can adapt my fighting style quickly. For me, it’s fine. In the end, it doesn’t make much difference who’s on the other side of the octagon now. I adapt quickly and do my job,” she assured.

Norma Dumont defeats Ketlen Vieira by Split Decision

29-28
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29-28# UFCVegas110
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— COMBAT SPORTS TODAY (@CSTodayNews) November 1, 2025

Joselyne Edwards

Joselyne Edwards in victory over Priscila Pedrita at UFC Vegas 109. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

Besides this being the second time a duel with Yana fell through, the fighter from Minas Gerais experienced a similar situation in her last fight. On that occasion, she was supposed to face Raquel Pennington , who withdrew from the fight due to a neck injury. Therefore, Norma ended up facing Ketlen Vieira and winning by split decision. Amidst this turbulent scenario, she believes that this weekend's fight is an opportunity to stay on the UFC's radar.

“Basically, it’s another opportunity to win, to be on the microphone, to be seen, and to earn my salary. Many criticized me for accepting a fight with someone so far below in the rankings, but I don’t have to accept anything. It’s my job. The division is happening for other athletes, so I can’t just stand around waiting. Last year I already went a year without fighting because nobody wanted to fight me. It’s not interesting to be out of the game. I don’t need to prove anything to anyone, just show my work and evolve inside the cage. In terms of ranking, I haven’t evolved at all, but I don’t need to be propelled to a title shot, I’m already next. In fact, I’m just staying active,” she concluded.

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