Joselyne Edwards squeaks out decision over Norma Dumont

Third-ranked women's bantamweight contender Norma Dumont and No. 11 ranked Joselyne Edwards clashed in Saturday's UFC Vegas 116 co-main event at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas.

Dumont entered the fight having not lost since May 2022 and riding a six-fight winning streak. Another win would strengthen the Brazilian's argument to get a crack at the title.

Edwards had the opportunity to leap in the rankings, pick up the biggest win of her career and put herself squarely in the title shot conversation. The Panamanian made the walk to the octagon coming off four consecutive wins.

Dumont switched back and forth with her stance and delivered a leg kick. Edwards pressed forward with punches but Dumont moved just out of range. Edwards pressured Dumont and connected with a right hand. Dumont quickly clinched the took Edwards down but Edwards immediately got back to her feet. They worked for position along the cage and exchanged knees to the legs. Edwards worked to take Dumont down. She pulled Dumont to the ground but Dumont gained top position. She didn't inflict any damage but maintained top control. MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Dumont.

They exchanged leg kicks to begin the second frame. Dumont inched forward and delivered leg kicks. Edwards responded with a right hand to the body. Edwards was short of the mark with her punches. The round plate about at distance, kickboxing distance. Both women were settling to throw one strike at a time and not putting together combinations. Dumont caught a leg kick and landed a right hand down the middle. Edwards closed the distance and clinched late in the round. She landed knees to the legs of Dumont. MMAWeekly scored the frame 10-9 for Dumont.

Dumont connected with a kick to the body. Edwards responded with a hard right hand followed by a right to the body. Edwards pressed forward while Dumont circled on the outside. Edwards landed to the body with a kick. In an exchange, Edwards connected with a left. Midway through the frame, Edwards landed a left hand and clinched. She looked to get a takedown but Dumont shook off the attempt. Edwards was the more active fighter. Edwards connected with a combination. MMAWeekly scored the round 10-9 for Edwards.