The UFC has enlisted Joselyne Edwards as the official backup fighter for the upcoming title fight in New York City.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship has officially selected Joselyne Edwards to serve as the backup fighter for the high-stakes women's bantamweight title clash between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes. The championship matchup is scheduled to take place at Madison Square Garden on November 12th.
As the No. 1 ranked women's 135-pound fighter, Edwards will travel to New York City to make weight and ensure the championship bout proceeds safely. This strategic move guarantees that a qualified athlete is ready to step into the Octagon if either main event participant experiences any unforeseen issues, according to information published by mmamania.
The announcement highlights the promotion's cautious approach to major title fights, ensuring that fans will witness a women's bantamweight championship bout no matter what happens in the coming weeks. Edwards enters this vital role riding a strong momentum within the Ultimate Fighting Championship roster.
Joselyne Edwards UFC Record and Streak
Joselyne Edwards currently holds a promotional record of 9 wins and 4 losses inside the Ultimate Fighting Championship. The talented bantamweight is riding an impressive five-fight win streak, with four of those victories coming via finish, establishing her as a top contender.
Her most recent victory took place at UFC Vegas 116 in April, where she secured a unanimous decision win over Norma Dumont. Nicknamed La Pantera, Edwards has proven her durability and skill against high-level competition, earning her the coveted backup position for this historic Madison Square Garden card.
Weight Cut Challenges for Kayla Harrison
Kayla Harrison has previously admitted that the intense weight cut to reach the 135-pound bantamweight limit involves a grueling process of torture that is definitely not healthy, but she considers it worth the struggle. The extreme weight management has led analysts to question whether the current weight cut is taking years off her life.
While Kayla Harrison has never missed weight in her career, her severe weight-cutting process creates a viable scenario where a backup fighter might be needed. On the other side, Amanda Nunes has maintained a flawless record of making weight across 21 bouts at the bantamweight division.
UFC Backup Fighter Trends in 2026
The promotion has significantly reduced its use of backup fighters in recent years, utilizing insurance on the scale only three times in 2026. Previous examples this year include Michael Morales weighing in for Islam Makhachev versus Ian Machado Garry.
Additional instances feature Diego Lopes as insurance for Ilia Topuria versus Justin Gaethje, and Mauricio Ruffy stepping on the scale for Max Holloway versus Conor McGregor. Now, Joselyne Edwards joins this exclusive group for the November event.
Weigh-In Requirements for La Pantera
Despite her impressive current streak, Joselyne Edwards has experienced weight-management issues in the past, missing weight three times during her bantamweight career, including one instance by a full three pounds.
Because she is acting as a championship backup, Edwards will be required to hit the 135-pound limit right on the nose with no pound allowance if she needs to replace either Kayla Harrison or Amanda Nunes at Madison Square Garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the backup fighter for Kayla Harrison vs Amanda Nunes?
No. 1 ranked women's bantamweight contender Joselyne Edwards is the official backup fighter for the title bout between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes.
When and where is UFC 334 taking place?
UFC 334 is scheduled to take place on November 12th at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Has Joselyne Edwards ever missed weight in the UFC?
Yes, Joselyne Edwards has missed weight three times during her bantamweight career in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, once by three full pounds.
