Norma Dumont Criticizes UFC for Bantamweight Title Matchup

LockerRoom Team

14 Sep 2024

Norma Dumont is expressing frustration with recent UFC decisions affecting the bantamweight division. Raquel Pennington won the 135-pound title in January by defeating Mayra Bueno Silva. Pennington will defend her belt for the first time in nearly nine months against Julianna Peña at UFC 307 on October 5. Peña, who has not fought in 25 months following a loss to Amanda Nunes, is being given the title shot despite her extended absence.

Dumont’s Criticism

Dumont, who will fight Irene Aldana at UFC 306 in Las Vegas, is skeptical about her chances of securing a title shot next. “I highly doubt [I’m next] because of this ridiculous Julianna vs. Raquel fight,” Dumont told MMA Fighting. “Julianna, for the love of God… Julianna was out for two-and-a-half years, running from everybody, and then was gifted this fight with Pennington. It’s going to be hard to watch.”

Peña's Past Performances

Peña is known for being the only fighter to have defeated Nunes during her UFC championship run, but Dumont questions the significance of that victory. “Not taking any merit away from Julianna, but Amanda wasn’t well that night,” Dumont said. “Amanda came back and put a beating on her. She was licking her wounds for two-and-a-half years and was still rewarded with a title shot? Why not give it to Irene, who stayed active and had a notable victory over Karol Rosa?”

Predictions and Future Matchups

Dumont believes Pennington will win against Peña due to her superior skills and toughness. She suggests that the winner of the upcoming fight between Kayla Harrison and Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307 should be next in line for a title shot. “The winner of Kayla Harrison vs. Ketlen Vieira makes sense for the next in line,” Dumont said. “If Ketlen wins, they would have to give her the shot, but I expect Kayla to win due to her strength and size.”

Dumont’s Path to a Title Shot

Dumont is confident she will defeat Aldana and expects to face one of the top contenders for the title next. She is particularly interested in fighting Peña or Ketlen Vieira. “I’ll probably fight Julianna or Ketlen next, or maybe Macy [Chiasson],” Dumont said. “There’s no other fight for me than the belt if I beat Aldana and one of these three.”

Fighting in Enemy Territory

Dumont is unconcerned about fighting in Las Vegas during Mexican Independence Day, noting her past success in the city. “Las Vegas is my home,” Dumont said. “I’ve fought here eight times and never lost. I’m fighting Irene, not the crowd. I’m focused on getting to the belt.”

Preparation and Strategy

Dumont has secured her last four victories by decision, including a recent win over former featherweight champion Germaine de Randamie. She plans to exploit Aldana’s weaknesses, despite keeping her strategy confidential. “I have the skills to beat Irene everywhere,” Dumont said. “We’ll exploit her striking and ground game weaknesses with all my weapons.”