Nora Cornolle: The Rematch That Could Propel Joselyne Edwards to Bantamweight Stardom
Over the last 16 months, Joselyne Edwards has undergone a remarkable transformation. From a prospect facing a two-fight skid, she’s emerged as a Top 15 contender, delivering three consecutive highlight-reel finishes. The 30-year-old bantamweight previously suffered back-to-back defeats against Nora Cornolle and Ailin Perez, both of whom are now ranked within the Top 15. However, these setbacks never diminished Edwards’ unwavering self-belief.
Watch The Edwards Playlist On UFC FIGHT PASS to witness her journey.
A Turning Point in October 2024
Returning to the Octagon in October 2024, Edwards carried the same confidence that has defined her career. This time, however, it was coupled with a noticeably sharper skillset, signaling not just a comeback, but a genuine evolution. Her opponent, Tamires Vidal, had demonstrated both submission and knockout power early in her career. Edwards, however, dominated from the opening bell.
The Panamanian outstruck Vidal 151 to 53, securing three takedowns and maintaining over four minutes of control time. Through her first eight UFC fights, Edwards was consistently entertaining, but lacked the finishing power to secure decisive victories. Consistently going to the judges’ scorecards wasn’t a recipe for rapid ascent in the rankings.
A Statement Performance
But this Edwards was different. Instead of settling for a unanimous decision, she spent the final minutes of the third round unleashing relentless ground and pound, constantly transitioning to find a submission. Ultimately, a rear-naked choke presented itself, forcing Vidal to tap out with just 30 seconds remaining. It was a definitive statement, proving Edwards wasn’t just another prospect, but a formidable opponent for anyone she faced.
Continued Dominance
This momentum continued in her next fight against then-No. 14 ranked Chelsea Chandler in Kansas City. Edwards immediately took the fight to Chandler, securing a takedown within the first minute. After allowing Chandler to regain her feet, she unleashed a barrage of strikes, culminating in a devastating left hook that sent Chandler crashing to the canvas. A few follow-up shots sealed the victory.
With the world now aware of Edwards’ power, a matchup against Priscila Cachoeira, fresh off a brutal KO of Josiane Nunes, was a logical pairing. Cachoeira started aggressively, pressing Edwards against the cage. A momentary pause due to an eye poke didn’t deter Edwards; she immediately turned the tables and went on the offensive. Utilizing her body kick and left hook – two of her most effective weapons – she traded hard shots with Cachoeira until a left hook followed by a right hand nearly flattened her opponent. One follow-up shot was all it took.
The Rematch with Nora Cornolle
Three fights, three finishes, each more spectacular than the last. Performances like these are crucial for gaining recognition in the lighter weight divisions, and Edwards has firmly established herself on the map. Watch this and every UFC event on Paramount+.
Edwards kicks off her 2026 campaign at UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs Hernandez, where she’ll rematch Nora Cornolle, two and a half years after the Frenchwoman secured a decision win in Paris. This is the perfect opportunity for Edwards to settle the score and continue her ascent in the bantamweight Top 15. Edwards has quickly become must-see TV, so don’t miss her in action on Paramount+ this Saturday.
Don’t miss UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs Hernandez, live from Toyota Center in Houston, Texas on February 21, 2026. Prelims start at 5pm ET/2pm PT, followed by the main card live on Paramount+ at 8pm ET/5pm PT.
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