Reactions of previously known and newly synthesized N-(bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-en-endo-2-ylmethyl)arenesulfonamides with monoperoxyphthalic acid generated in situ from phthalic anhydride and 30% hydrogen peroxide lead mostly to the corresponding N-arylsulfonyl-exo-2-hydroxy-4-azatricyclo[4.2.1.03,7]nonanes (azabrendanes). In some cases, N-(exo-5,6-epoxybicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-en-exo-2-ylmethyl)arenesulfonamides were isolated as the only products or mixtures of alternative oxidation products were obtained. The presence of electron-acceptor nitro groups in the benzene ring and bulky substituents, primarily in the ortho position, is considered to be a structural factor preventing the primary oxidation products (epoxy derivatives) from undergoing heterocyclization.