Ailin Perez wants big-time role if she wins at UFC Vegas 121 - MMA Junkie

Ailin Perez's sights have been set on the UFC women's bantamweight title ever since she joined the promotion, and she believes it's finally within her reach.

Perez (13-2 MMA, 6-1 UFC) is knocking on the door of a title shot. She's racked up six wins in a row since dropping her UFC debut in 2022, and she's looking to make it seven this Saturday when she meets top contender Norma Dumont at UFC Fight Night 289 (Paramount+) – which goes down at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas.

Perez hopes a win over Dumont (13-3 MMA, 9-3 UFC) gets her the next crack at the belt, and also a little more. The Argentine is hoping to get the role of being the official backup for the UFC 334 women's bantamweight title bout on Nov. 14, going down between champion Kayla Harrison and WMMA GOAT Amanda Nunes.

"I feel ready, and not just to fight for the belt, but also to be the backup," Perez told Hablemos MMA in Spanish. "I'm ready to replace Kayla or Amanda should the UFC need someone in November."

Perez believes it is very feasible for a contender to be needed at UFC 334. After all, Kayla Harrison is coming off neck surgery, and Nunes hasn't fought since retiring in the summer of 2023.

"Kayla is coming off a neck surgery, and Amanda is older now," Perez explained. "What happens is someone gets hurt in the weight cut, or something happens. Ailin Perez will be ready."

Should the UFC not come calling for a backup role, Perez hopes to put on a dominant showing against Dumont, and get herself the next title shot. She believes she's done enough both in and out of the cage to merit the opportunity.

"I came to get a title shot. I came for that," Perez said. "But if I don't get it, then it will be in the next fight. I have faith that I will get it, and I'm playing all my cards. I'm not just winning, but also growing my name. I have the respect of the people, and I've earned that. Like always, I lay it all on the line, and whatever happens, happens. I'll be ready."