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Tag: Lerone Murphy

  • Michael Bisping Believes Lerone Murphy Deserved the Win at UFC London

    Michael Bisping Believes Lerone Murphy Deserved the Win at UFC London

    Michael Bisping believes Lerone Murphy should have defeated Movsar Evloev at UFC London. The featherweight bout ended in a majority decision for Evloev (20-0), but Bisping disagreed with the judges’ scorecards.

    The UFC London main event saw two judges score the fight 48-46 for Evloev, while the third judge scored it 47-47. Evloev also had a point deducted in Round 4 for low blows. Murphy’s record now stands at 17-1-1.

    Bisping’s Analysis

    Michael Bisping, who did commentary live, said right away that he saw the fight differently. On his YouTube channel, Bisping said:

    “I’ll just get to the point: I thought Lerone — and I’ve got nothing against Movsar, and this is not me being biased, for all the American fans — I thought Lerone should have won that fight.”

    “I thought he won the first three rounds. I thought Movsar didn’t pick it up and really start going for it until Rounds 4 and 5. And clearly Movsar won Rounds 4 and 5. He dominated those rounds. He busted him up. He damaged him. Lerone was talking about at the end of 4, he blew his hip out and whatnot.”

    He also pointed to the score math and deduction, saying:

    “But even still, that’s three rounds to two. And then, even if you give Movsar the third round, which was a close one, Movsar had a point deducted for the two groin shots. He had a point deducted in Round 4.”

    Bisping further stated that the deduction could have altered the final result to a draw. He said:

    “Now, maybe I’m wrong, but there was the point deduction. So, should it have been a draw? Because if it’s two rounds apiece, and let’s just say Movsar won three out of [five], well then, he’s essentially lost one of them because he loses the point. So, if anything, it should have been a draw, in my humble opinion.”

    Bisping scored the fight either a draw or in favor of Murphy. There is debate among commentators, including Michael Bisping, who scored rounds 1-3 for Murphy and cited the point deduction, according to TNT Fight Sports YouTube Review.

    Evloev is now positioned as next in line for a featherweight title shot.

  • “No Idea How To Score Fights” – Movsar Evloev Wins Eliminator

    “No Idea How To Score Fights” – Movsar Evloev Wins Eliminator

    It appears Movsar Evloev will be next in line for Alexander Volkanovski and the UFC featherweight championship, as he defeated Lerone Murphy in a battle of undefeated contenders that headlined UFC London.

    In what was a bit of a surprise, Evloev did not go for any takedowns in the first 10 minutes of the fight. Instead, the two fighters, after some feeling out, both used their striking to try and get the upper hand.

    Evloev seemed to hold his own landing on the body during the first round. It appeared Murphy’s striking skillset was stronger, and he was landing the better attacks in round two.

    Evloev finally landed a takedown in the third round. Murphy, however, got up quickly, and his movement appeared to give Evloev some struggle. But Evloev found success with his striking, including some solid pressure near the fence, landing on the body again.

    Despite gaining some momentum, Evloev landed a pair of low blows on Murphy and was deducted one point. He then went back to his bread and butter during the fourth round, landing a pair of takedowns. Evloev then controlled the fifth round.

    In spite of the point deduction, Evloev managed to edge Murphy out in a majority decision.

    Movsar Evloev Narrowly Wins Title Eliminator Against Lerone Murphy In UFC London Main Event

    Evloev now improves to 20-0 in his MMA career. This marked Evloev’s first fight since defeating Aljamain Sterling at UFC 310 in December 2024.

    This marked Murphy’s first loss in professional MMA. He entered this fight off a highlight knockout of Aaron Pico at UFC 319 — one of 2025’s top knockouts in the sport.

  • UFC London Results: Evloev vs Murphy Live Updates & Highlights

    UFC London Results: Evloev vs Murphy Live Updates & Highlights

    UFC London results and highlights are updated live as the action unfolds from the O2 Arena in London, England. The main event will feature a featherweight bout between Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy. MMANews has you covered with all the results and highlights!

    Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy – Featherweight Main Event

    This main event presents a battle of unbeaten fighters, with the winner most likely scoring the next title shot at featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.

    Evloev is 19-0 but did not fight in 2025. His most recent bout came against Aljamain Sterling, scoring a decision win at UFC 310. Murphy, meanwhile, is 17-0-1, having won all fights since going to a draw in his UFC debut. He enters this fight off his highlight knockout of Aaron Pico at UFC 319.

    The co-main event will feature another featherweight matchup, as Luke Riley takes on Michael Aswell. Riley made his UFC debut at UFC Qatar, scoring a finish of Bogdan Grad. Aswell is 1-1 in the UFC, coming into this bout off a first-round finish of Lucas Almeida at UFC Rio in October.

    If you can’t watch the action, check here for all the latest results and highlights from UFC London!

    How to Watch UFC London

    • Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
    • Venue: O2 Arena, London, England
    • Streaming: Paramount+ (exclusive)
    • Prelims: 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT
    • Main Card: 4 PM ET / 1 PM PT

    UFC London Quick Results

    • Main Event: Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy — Movsar Evloev def. Lerone Murphy via majority decision (48-46 x2, 47-47)
    • Co-Main Event: Luke Riley vs. Michael Aswell — Luke Riley def. Michael Aswell Jr. via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
    • Michael Page vs. Sam Patterson — Michael Page def. Sam Patterson via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)
    • Iwo Baraniewski vs. Austen Lane — Iwo Baraniewski def. Austen Lane via TKO (Rd. 1, 0:28)
    • Roman Dolidze vs. Christian Leroy Duncan — Christian Leroy Duncan def. Roman Dolidze via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
    • Kurtis Campbell vs. Danny Silva — Danny Silva def. Kurtis Campbell via TKO (Rd. 2, 0:31)

    UFC London Results & Highlights

    Preliminary Card (Paramount+, 1 PM ET)

    Women’s Strawweight: Shanelle Dyer vs. Ravena Oliveira

    Result: Shanelle Dyer def. Ravena Oliveira via TKO (Rd. 2, 1:17)

    Lightweight: Shem Rock vs. Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady

    Result: Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady def. Shem Rock via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

    Heavyweight: Louie Sutherland vs. Brando Pericic

    Result: Brando Pericic def. Louie Sutherland via TKO (Rd. 1, 1:48)

    Middleweight: Mantas Kondratavicius vs. Antonio Trocoli

    Result: Mantas Kondratavicius def. Antonio Trocoli via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-27 x2)

    Heavyweight: Mario Pinto vs. Felipe Franco

    Result: Mario Pinto def. Felipe Franco via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

    Featherweight: Nathaniel Wood vs. Losene Keita

    Result: Nathaniel Wood def. Losene Keita via split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)

    Lightweight: Mason Jones vs. Axel Sola

    Result: Mason Jones def. Axel Sola via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

    Preliminary Card (Paramount+, 4 PM ET)

    Featherweight: Kurtis Campbell vs. Danny Silva

    Result: Danny Silva def. Kurtis Campbell via TKO (Rd. 2, 0:31)

    Middleweight: Roman Dolidze vs. Christian Leroy Duncan

    Result: Christian Leroy Duncan def. Roman Dolidze via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

    Light Heavyweight: Iwo Baraniewski vs. Austen Lane

    Result: Iwo Baraniewski def. Austen Lane via TKO (Rd. 1, 0:28)

    Welterweight: Michael Page vs. Sam Patterson

    Result: Michael Page def. Sam Patterson via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

    Featherweight: Luke Riley vs. Michael Aswell Jr.

    Result: Luke Riley def. Michael Aswell Jr. via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

    Featherweight: Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy

    Result: Movsar Evloev def. Lerone Murphy via majority decision (48-46 x2, 47-47)

  • Lerone Murphy Hires Mental Coach Before Movsar Evloev Fight

    Lerone Murphy Hires Mental Coach Before Movsar Evloev Fight

    Lerone Murphy (18-0-0) has hired a mental coach to gain an edge before his upcoming fight against Movsar Evloev (19-0-0) at UFC London on March 21st, 2026. The undefeated Murphy is headlining the event at The O2 Arena in a featherweight title eliminator bout.

    Murphy is coming off a first-round knockout win over Aaron Pico in August. Evloev last fought in December 2024, beating Aljamain Sterling. Evloev recently resolved late visa issues to make the event. The winner of this fight is likely to get a shot at featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.

    Murphy’s Mental Edge

    In an interview with Cageside Press, Lerone Murphy explained he decided to hire a mental coach to improve his performance for the upcoming fight:

    “For me, having a mental coach is about getting that extra 1% out of yourself. I’m strong‑minded anyway, I’m a good fighter, but how can I get better? Can I get better? I’m always trying to improve in every area possible. So it’s helped. It’s helped switch me on, focus me, and not carry baggage into fights.”

    Murphy is preparing for the first time without long‑time head coach Carl Prince after they reportedly parted ways, and he is instead leaning on teammate‑turned‑coach Jordan Barton and a wider mix of training influences while remaining anchored in Manchester.

  • Evloev vs Murphy Officially Announced as Main Event for UFC London

    Evloev vs Murphy Officially Announced as Main Event for UFC London

    The UFC confirmed on Monday that undefeated featherweight contenders Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy will headline UFC Fight Night 270 on March 21 at The O2 Arena in London. The winner of this matchup is expected to challenge Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight championship later this year.

    Movsar Evloev vs Lerone Murphy Officially Announced as Main Event for UFC London in March

    Evloev returns after a 14-month absence from competition. The Russian holds a perfect 19-0 record and is ranked number one in the division. His last appearance came in December 2024 at UFC 310, where he defeated former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling by unanimous decision. That performance extended his UFC record to 9-0, though he has failed to finish any opponent inside the octagon.

    The 31-year-old grappler missed all of 2025 after withdrawing from a scheduled bout with Aaron Pico at UFC Abu Dhabi in July due to an injury sustained during training camp in Thailand. His resume includes decision victories over Diego Lopes, Arnold Allen, and Dan Ige.

    Murphy carries a 17-0-1 professional record into the contest and will compete in front of his home crowd for the first time as a main event headliner. The Manchester native is ranked fourth at featherweight and has won nine consecutive fights since a draw with Zubaira Tukhugov in 2019.

    The 34-year-old secured his title shot credentials with a stunning spinning back elbow knockout of Pico at UFC 319 in August. That finish, which occurred in the first round, immediately positioned Murphy as a serious contender and earned widespread recognition as a knockout of the year candidate. Earlier in 2025, Murphy defeated former interim title challenger Josh Emmett by unanimous decision at UFC Apex in Las Vegas, matching Evloev for the longest active win streak in the featherweight division.

    Volkanovski recently defended his title for the second time against Lopes at UFC 325 in Sydney, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 49-45, 49-46, and 50-45. Following that victory, the Australian champion stated that either Evloev or Murphy would likely be his next challenger. The win tied Volkanovski with Jose Aldo for the most featherweight title defenses in UFC history at eight.

    The full main card features several British fighters competing at home. Michael “Venom” Page returns to welterweight to face Sam Patterson after recent success at middleweight, where he defeated Jared Cannonier in August. Roman Dolidze meets rising English prospect Christian Leroy Duncan in a middleweight bout. Duncan enters on a three-fight winning streak with two knockout finishes in 2025, while Dolidze seeks to rebound from a submission loss to Anthony Hernandez.

  • Lerone Murphy Responds To Possible Delay In Alexander Volkanovski Title Fight

    Lerone Murphy Responds To Possible Delay In Alexander Volkanovski Title Fight

    Lerone Murphy has responded to Alexander Volkanovski suggesting that there could be a delay in their planned December title fight.

    As we know, Alexander Volkanovski is the UFC featherweight champion. We also know that in the wake of his incredible knockout over Aaron Pico, Lerone Murphy is widely considered to be the number one contender. Volkanovski is interested in the fight, Murphy is interested in the fight, and December was being pinpointed as the perfect timeline for it to take place.

    However, in the words of Volk, a spanner may have been thrown in the works. It’s not clear exactly what that is, whether it be due to a niggling injury or the UFC opting to go in a different direction. Either way, though, some are concerned that Lerone Murphy won’t get the shot that the majority of fans believe he truly deserves.

    In a recent tweet, though, Lerone Murphy made it clear that he is ready for whenever the fight is booked.

    https://twitter.com/LeroneMurphy/status/1971601258906837336

    Lerone Murphy is still ready for Alexander Volkanovski

    “He didn’t say no to me. I think he is referring to the date. I will be ready whenever. Let’s wait and see!!”

    This is a highly anticipated fight and for good reason. These two men have very interesting styles and nobody really knows what’s going to happen when they match up with one another. What we do know, though, is that Murphy is a professional, and he’s proven that by suggesting that it won’t matter too much to him if it doesn’t go down in December.

  • Lerone Murphy Readies for Alexander Volkanovski Title Match in December

    Lerone Murphy Readies for Alexander Volkanovski Title Match in December

    Lerone Murphy has his eyes set on Alexander Volkanovski after his massive UFC 319 win and foresees a featherweight title bid before 2025 wraps up. Murphy is on the heels of a viral knockout against highly hyped UFC debutant Aaron Pico in Chicago on UFC’s recent pay-per-view offering and seems hotter than ever with the kingpin of his weight category, Volkanovski, seeing him as the next up for a title fight.

    The surging 145 pound contender specifically mentioned December as a month that seemed to align with what Volk was eyeing for his next fight date and Murphy seems game per a recent interview he did. This chat took place with Michael Bisping on the former UFC middleweight champion’s YouTube channel as Murphy said,

    “Volk wants to fight in December. So, I think it’s going to be Las Vegas December. I’m waiting for a call anytime now, next few weeks to get it set in stone and then I’ll start my training camp.”

    Lerone Murphy and his studying approach for Alexander Volkanovski bout

    While Lerone Murphy has at times drawn the ire of certain MMA fans for a perceived lack of finishing ability, it seems like the British fighter has re-ignited a killer instinct with himself after the Aaron Pico finish a few weeks ago. Coming off a somewhat inauspicious, conservative performance against the heavy handed Josh Emmett in April, this co-main event win over the former Bellator MMA prospect was the exact kind of jolt that Murphy needed at this point.

    In discussing that recent mindset shift on the aforementioned Believe You Me Podcast instalment, and how that informs a potential featherweight title bid against Alexander Volkanovski next, Murphy stated [via Bloody Elbow],

    “I’m a technician, I watch a lot of tape on guys so I understand the flaws and I’m already seeing holes in Volkanovski’s game and I’m gonna exploit them.”

  • Lerone Murphy Reveals How He Deals with Online Haters

    Lerone Murphy Reveals How He Deals with Online Haters

    UFC featherweight contender Lerone Murphy has spoken candidly about how he deals with online haters.

    As we know, Lerone Murphy is one of the top featherweights on the planet. He has already achieved a great deal throughout the course of his career and as we look ahead to the immediate future, it seems as if he’s on the verge of earning a title shot against reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski.

    He earned that right by knocking Aaron Pico out cold at UFC 319. For Lerone Murphy, this was the kind of statement win he needed to prove that he has what it takes to mix it up with the very best at 145 pounds.

    In a recent interview, Lerone Murphy opened up on what it’s like to have to deal with critics.

    Lerone Murphy discusses dealing with haters

    “You can’t win in this game. There’s always going to be people that love your style, love your game, and there’s always going to be people that hate on you. So it is what it is.”

    For Murphy, it’s all about pushing forward towards a brighter future. He’s already done some great things in MMA, but we all know what he really wants: UFC gold. Volkanovski is going to serve as stiff opposition, as is the case for everyone who goes up against the Australian sensation, but Lerone will believe that he has all the answers necessary to become just the fourth Englishman to win a world title in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

  • Aaron Pico Issues First Statement On Crushing KO Loss To Lerone Murphy At UFC 319, Vows Redemption

    Aaron Pico Issues First Statement On Crushing KO Loss To Lerone Murphy At UFC 319, Vows Redemption

    Aaron Pico has already set his sights beyond the sting of his devastating defeat.

    This past Saturday at the United Center in Chicago, Pico’s Octagon debut was derailed in brutal fashion, as undefeated featherweight Lerone Murphy sealed a stunning first-round knockout in the UFC 319 co-main event.

    Pico came out aggressive from the opening bell, pressing Murphy with sharp punches and heavy pressure. He mixed in a clinch and even tested his wrestling, but Murphy stayed composed, breaking free and firing back with clean shots, including a sharp knee to the body.

    Moments later, “The Miracle” unleashed a thunderous spinning elbow that crashed flush on Pico’s chin, instantly folding the UFC newcomer. As the 28-year-old Californian hit the canvas motionless, Murphy added a single follow-up strike before the referee intervened, sealing one of the night’s most spectacular finishes.

    Image: @ufc/X

    Aaron Pico Promises Bounce Back After UFC 319 Knockout Loss

    Aaron Pico entered 2025 as one of the UFC’s most hyped newcomers, but his dream debut ended abruptly when Lerone Murphy floored him with a highlight-reel knockout.

    The featherweight hopeful addressed the setback on social media on Sunday, assuring fans of his health while promising that the lessons learned from defeat would fuel his return as a stronger, more prepared fighter.

    “Last night wasn’t my night, that’s the fight game,” Aaron Pico posted on Instagram. “I’m grateful for my team, my family, and everyone who continues to support me. The supporters that have been there from day one and my new supporters, I see you! Thank you.

    “Wins and losses both teach lessons and I’ll come back sharper, stronger, and better prepared. Thank you all who have sent messages and checked in, my health is well. Thanks for riding with me. My story is not over.”

    he defeat drops Pico to 13-5 in his professional career, with 11 of those victories coming by way of finish, all secured during his run under the Bellator MMA banner.

    Image: @aaronpicousa/Instagram

  • “See You In December” – Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, And Other Fighters & Fans React As Lerone Murphy Gives UFC 319 A Second Straight Spinning Back Elbow KO

    “See You In December” – Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, And Other Fighters & Fans React As Lerone Murphy Gives UFC 319 A Second Straight Spinning Back Elbow KO

    It was crazy enough when Carlos Prates unleashed a spinning back elbow on Geoff Neal for a Knockout of the Year contender. One fight later, we get a second kind of spinning elbow — a UFC first, and one that potentially will give Lerone Murphy a title shot.

    Murphy took advantage of Aaron Pico’s aggression and scored a spinning back elbow to score a first-round knockout in the UFC 319 co-main event.

    Pico came out with strong strikes from the start, looking to bring the fight to Murphy and connecting on the body. Murphy, however, troubled Pico with a knee that landed in close.

    “The Miracle” picked up on Pico’s forward movement and caught him being careless, landing a surprise spinning back elbow that dropped Pico out cold in devastating fashion.

    Lerone Murphy Blasts Aaron Pico With Elbow For KO At UFC 319

    Murphy now improves to 17-0-1, having won every bout in the Octagon since going to a draw in his UFC debut.

    This was Pico’s debut in the UFC since coming over from the PFL, having just one fight there following PFL’s purchase of Bellator in late 2023. Pico hadn’t fought since defeating Henry Corrales at the PFL vs. Bellator Champions card in February 2024.

  • UFC 319 Results & Highlights: Khamzat Chimaev Decisions Dricus du Plessis

    UFC 319 Results & Highlights: Khamzat Chimaev Decisions Dricus du Plessis

    UFC 319 took place tonight from the United Center in Chicago, Illinois and MMA News has you covered with all the results and highlights! 

    In the main event, Dricus du Plessis looked to defend his middleweight title against Khamzat Chimaev. While in the co-main event, Lerone Murphy took on Aaron Pico in a featherweight matchup. 

    UFC 319 Results: Main Card

    • Middleweight Championship: Khamzat Chimaev def. Dricus du Plessis via unanimous decision (50-44×3) 
    • Featherweight: Lerone Murphy def. Aaron Pico via KO: R1, 3.21 
    • Welterweight: Carlos Prates de. Geoff Neal via KO: R1, 4.59
    • Middleweight: Michael Page def. Jared Cannonier via unanimous decision (29-28×3)
    • Flyweight: Tim Elliott def. Kai Asakura via submission: R2, 4.39

     
    Preliminary Card

    • Middleweight: Baysangur Susurkaev def. Eric Nolan via submission: R2, 2.01
    • Middleweight: Michał Oleksiejczuk def. Gerald Meerschaert via TKO: R1, 3.03
    • Women’s Strawweight: Loopy Godinez def. Jessica Andrade via unanimous decision (29-28×3)
    • Lightweight: Alexander Hernandez def. Chase Hooper via TKO: R1, 4.58

    Early Preliminary Card

    • Lightweight: Drakkar Klose def. Edson Barboza via unanimous decision (29-28×3)
    • Women’s Flyweight: Karine Silva def. Dione Barbosa via unanimous decision (29-28×3)

    Flyweight: TUF Finale: Joseph Morales def. Alibi Idiris via submission: R2, 3.04

    Preliminary Card Highlights

    Joseph Morales def. Alibi Idiris

    In the opening bout of UFC 319, Joseph Morales won The Ultimate Fighter flyweight finale with a submission in round two.

    Alexander Hernandez def. Chase Hooper

    Alexander Hernandez earned a first-round TKO.

    Michał Oleksiejczuk def. Gerald Meerschaert

    Michał Oleksiejczuk picked up a first-round TKO in this middleweight bout.

    Baysangur Susurkaev def. Eric Nolan

    Baysangur Susurkaev earned a submission win on his UFC debut.

    Main Card Highlights

    Tim Elliott def. Kai Asakura

    Tim Elliott submitted Kai Asakura in the second round of this flyweight bout.

    Michael Page def. Jared Cannonier

    In this middleweight bout, Michael Page got it done on the scorecards against Jared Cannonier.

    Carlos Prates de. Geoff Neal

    Carlos Prates got the KO right at the end of round one.

    Lerone Murphy def. Aaron Pico

    In the co-main event, Lerone Murphy earned a huge KO in the first round.

    Khamzat Chimaev def. Dricus du Plessis

    In the main event, Khamzat Chimaev earned a unanimous decision to win the middleweight title.

  • Lerone Murphy explains why Mike Tyson has always been his inspiration ahead of UFC 319

    Lerone Murphy explains why Mike Tyson has always been his inspiration ahead of UFC 319

    Undefeated UFC featherweight Lerone Murphy has explained why Mike Tyson has always been a big inspiration of his.

    On Saturday night, Lerone Murphy will attempt to make his case for a shot at the UFC featherweight championship. He’ll do this by trying to defeat Aaron Pico, who has a lot of hype behind him after making the move over from the Bellator-PFL brand. Of course, while Murphy may be unbeaten, this isn’t exactly going to be a walk in the park for him.

    For Lerone Murphy, it’s about proving a point. He isn’t the most thrilling fighter in the division when it comes to picking up stoppage wins, but so long as he can keep grinding out victories, it’ll be hard to deny that he deserves a shot at the belt.

    In a recent interview with Card Player, Lerone Murphy spoke candidly about why he sees Mike Tyson as an inspiration in his career.

    Lerone Murphy reveals Mike Tyson as his inspiration

    “My inspiration has always been Mike Tyson, just because I believe he had a similar upbringing as me, around the same stuff. And then turned his life around, went into fighting early and just smashed it and he was just himself. I’ve read his book and I’ve watched all his podcasts. That’s somebody that inspired me the most in terms of combat sports. He also had a crazy mindset that I relate to.”

    Quotes via Card Player

    Can Murphy extend his unbeaten run on Saturday? We’ll have to wait and see.

  • Lerone Murphy Feels More Comfortable as the Underdog: “I do my best work with no pressure”

    Lerone Murphy Feels More Comfortable as the Underdog: “I do my best work with no pressure”

    UFC featherweight star Lerone Murphy is feeling good heading into his battle with Aaron Pico in the co-main event of UFC 319.

    For the longest time now, Lerone Murphy has been battling his way towards a hopeful title shot at 145 pounds. The 34-year-old is unbeaten in his mixed martial arts career and in the wake of his win over Josh Emmett earlier this year, he’s opted for a quick turnaround as he prepares to collide with Aaron Pico on Saturday night.

    It’s always difficult when you’re welcoming someone to the UFC, and it’s even harder when it’s someone who has as much hype as Aaron Pico does. Alas, it doesn’t seem to be something that’s bothering Lerone Murphy too much.

    In fact, even being listed as the underdog by some is great motivation for Lerone Murphy, as he noted in a recent interview with Card Player.

    Lerone Murphy doesn’t mind being underdog

    “I believe it’s going to be a great fight. I think it’s probably the toughest match-up I’ve had so far in my career stylistically and it’s going to be a great fight, man. But I think I can find holes and I believe I’m going to come out victorious. I want to go out there and make a big statement. And I want to finish him.”

    “I prefer to be an underdog, to be honest. With pressure you don’t perform as well, I believe. When I go in there and I just think it is what it is, I’m a fighter anyway. I’m going to be focused on that night and put the pressure on. I believe I do my best work with no pressure, which might be strange to some. Some people perform under pressure but I think I do my best work [when I’m relaxed]. I’m less hesitant and I let it all go and that’s what you’re going to see.”

    Quotes via Card Player

  • Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico Named UFC 319 Co-Main Event

    Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico Named UFC 319 Co-Main Event

    Finally, three weeks before it’s scheduled to go down in Chicago, UFC 319 has its co-main event. It’ll be one that features an unbeaten fighter welcoming a Bellator veteran to the Octagon.

    The UFC 319 co-main event will see Lerone Murphy taking on Aaron Pico. The announcement was confirmed during the UFC Abu Dhabi broadcast.

    This comes after the plans for Pico’s awaited UFC debut fell through. Pico was originally booked to face Movsar Evloev, but the fight fell through twice. Originally booked for UFC Vegas 106, the bout was moved to UFC Abu Dhabi. Less than two weeks out, however, Evloev withdrew due to injuries.

    UFC 319 Co-Main Event Sees Aaron Pico Make Octagon Debut vs. Lerone Murphy

    Pico signed with Bellator in 2017 and competed exclusively under their banner before the promotion was purchased by the PFL in 2023. After going 12-4 in the promotion, Pico fought once under the PFL banner, finishing Henry Corrales at the PFL vs. Bellator Champions event in February 2024.

    Murphy is 16-0-1 in his professional MMA career, having drawn in his first UFC bout and having scored victories ever since. Murphy comes into this contest off a decision win over Josh Emmett in the main event of UFC Vegas 105 in April.

    UFC 319 will be headlined by Dricus Du Plessis defending the UFC middleweight championship against Khamzat Chimaev.

  • UFC Rankings Report: Lerone Murphy Climbs After Staying Undefeated

    UFC Rankings Report: Lerone Murphy Climbs After Staying Undefeated

    In the aftermath of Saturday’s UFC Fight Night at the Apex in Las Vegas, MMA News has you covered with this week’s updates to the official UFC rankings.

    Men’s Pound-For-Pound: No changes.

    Women’s Pound-for-Pound: No changes.

    Women’s Strawweight: No changes.

    Women’s Flyweight: No changes.

    Women’s Bantamweight: No changes.

    Flyweight: No changes.

    Bantamweight: No changes.

    Featherweight: As expected, Lerone Murphy’s victory over Josh Emmett in this past weekend’s main event has seen him climb further into the top 10. “The Miracle” has risen by two positions, leaving him at #8 and the defeated Emmett down at #10.

    Lightweight: No changes.

    Welterweight: No changes.

    Middleweight: No changes

    Light Heavyweight: No changes.

    Heavyweight: No changes

    You can view the full updated UFC rankings here.

  • Lerone Murphy Insists ‘Real MMA Fans’ Appreciated His Win Over Josh Emmett

    Lerone Murphy Insists ‘Real MMA Fans’ Appreciated His Win Over Josh Emmett

    UFC featherweight contender Lerone Murphy isn’t entertaining any criticism of his headline victory on Saturday night.

    Murphy remained undefeated as a professional at this weekend’s UFC Fight Night inside the Apex. The Mancunian recorded his biggest win to date in the main event by outpointing longtime top 10 mainstay Josh Emmett.

    With the result, “The Miracle” has notched consecutive victories over Emmett, Dan Ige, and Edson Barboza. With that, he’s no doubt expecting a climb further up the 145-pound ladder come next week’s rankings update.

    But when it comes to his desired push into the title picture, some have suggested that the manner of his wins and lack of finishes will slow down Murphy’s surge toward the gold.

    The man himself, though, doesn’t appear worried, believing that “real MMA fans” will have appreciated the technical display he put on in Las Vegas.

    “Clinic! Real MMA fans will appreciate the technicality of that fight,” Lerone Murphy wrote on X. “That’s fight IQ. Punishing elbows in close, body kicks, neat footwork. Had him hurt a few times. Why would I stay in the pocket with a power puncher. Float like a butterfly sting like a (bee) baby”

    It remains to be seen what comes next for Lerone Murphy. He did have a name in mind post-fight, calling out former two-time title challenger Brian Ortega.

  • What’s Next For Lerone Murphy After UFC Vegas 105?

    What’s Next For Lerone Murphy After UFC Vegas 105?

    Lerone Murphy’s dominant unanimous decision victory over Josh Emmett at UFC Vegas 105 has cemented his position as one of the featherweight division’s most promising contenders. With his undefeated record now at 16-0-1 and an eight-fight winning streak that ties for the longest active streak in the division, Murphy stands at a pivotal moment in his career.

    The British fighter showcased exceptional technical skills in his victory, utilizing superior footwork and speed to outpace the veteran Emmett. Murphy’s striking differential was remarkable, landing 117 total strikes to Emmett’s 44 while demonstrating solid defensive wrestling against a proven power puncher.

    After dispatching the seventh-ranked Emmett, Murphy has made it clear he’s targeting the division’s elite. “Obviously, I want that title shot, but give me anything in the top five or top three,” Murphy stated in his post-fight comments. He specifically mentioned Brian Ortega as a potential next opponent, signaling his readiness to face the division’s upper echelon.

    This victory over Emmett represents Murphy’s most significant career win, building upon previous victories against established names like Dan Ige and Edson Barboza. The performance should propel him into the featherweight division’s top rankings, positioning him for a potential title eliminator bout in his next outing.

    For the undefeated Murphy, the path forward is clear – continue his ascent through the rankings with another high-profile victory that could potentially earn him a championship opportunity.

  • Lerone Murphy Stays Undefeated With Decision Win Over Josh Emmett At UFC Vegas 105

    Lerone Murphy Stays Undefeated With Decision Win Over Josh Emmett At UFC Vegas 105

    Lerone Murphy will be looking for his next fight to make a statement toward featherweight contendership after defeating former interim title challenger Josh Emmett in the main event of UFC Vegas 105.

    The opening round proved to be a competitive one. Murphy looked to use leg kicks to take out Emmett’s power and connected with several notable shots. Emmett, however, did put his power on display, connecting hard on a few exchanges during the frame.

    Emmett then scored a massive slam early in the second round before nearly locking in a guillotine. Murphy escaped to the feet, but Emmett kept control, pinning the British fighter against the fence. Murphy escaped Emmett’s grasp with less than two minutes left in the round, looking to pressure and be the aggressor for the rest of the round, finding success with the upper hand in striking.

    Lerone Murphy Outworks Josh Emmett In Competitive Outing, Earns Decision

    The third round proved to be a toss-up, with Emmett looking for takedowns and Murphy continuing to work his combinations and leg kicks. After another back-and-forth striking battle in round four, round five saw Emmett seem to get the upper hand in terms of striking output. Murphy, however, landed a stunning shot on Emmett, and he ultimately took the decision on all three judges’ cards.

    This was Emmett’s first appearance in the Octagon since his knockout of Bryce Mitchell — one of the top knockouts of 2023 — at UFC 296. He’s lost three of his last four, beginning with a loss in an interim featherweight title fight against Yair Rodriguez.

    Murphy improves to 16-0-1, having won every fight since earning a draw in his UFC debut. Murphy’s last three wins have now come against notable names in Emmett, Dan Ige and Edson Barboza.

  • UFC Fight Night Results & Highlights: Lerone Murphy Outpoints Josh Emmett

    UFC Fight Night Results & Highlights: Lerone Murphy Outpoints Josh Emmett

    The latest UFC Fight Night took place Saturday in Las Vegas, and MMA News has you covered with all of the action!

    Before turning its attention to pay-per-view fights in Miami next weekend, mixed martial arts’ leading promotion had one final piece of business to attend to at the Apex.

    And headlining inside the low-capacity venue on April 5 were a pair of top 10 featherweight contenders in Josh Emmett and Lerone Murphy, the latter of whom advanced his title ambitions with a main event triumph.

    With tonight’s event concluded, see below for the live results, followed by all the highlights as they come.

    UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Murphy Results & Highlights

    Main Card):

    • Featherweight Main Event: Lerone Murphy def. Josh Emmett via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46)
    • Featherweight: Pat Sabatini def. Joanderson Brito (30-26, 30-26, 30-27)
    • Bantamweight: ChangHo Lee def. Cortavious Romious via TKO (punches): R2, 3:48
    • Middleweight: Brad Tavares def. Gerald Meerschaert via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
    • Flyweight: Ode’ Osbourne def. Luis Gurule via TKO (punches): R2, 1:54
    • Middleweight: Torrez Finney def. Robert Valentin via unanimous decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)

    Preliminary Card:

    • Women’s Flyweight: Dione Barbosa def. Diane Belbiţă via submission (triangle choke): R1, 4:13
    • Welterweight: Rhys McKee def. Daniel Frunza via TKO (doctor’s stoppage): R1, 5:00
    • Women’s Strawweight: Loma Lookboonmee def. Istela Nunes via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
    • Bantamweight: Victor Henry def. Pedro Falcao via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
    • Heavyweight: Martin Buday def. Uran Satybaldiev via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
    • Women’s Strawweight: Talita Alencar def. Vanessa Demopoulos via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
  • UFC Vegas 105 Betting Odds: Current Favorites For Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy Card

    UFC Vegas 105 Betting Odds: Current Favorites For Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy Card

    UFC Vegas 105 is almost upon us, and MMA News is here to keep you updated with the current odds for this weekend’s lineup.

    The upcoming event takes place Saturday, April 5, at the Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. The main card begins at 9 PM ET/6 PM PT, with the preliminary card starting at 6 PM ET/3 PM PT.

    Topping the lineup will be a pair of top 10 featherweight contenders in powerhouse Josh Emmett and the undefeated Lerone Murphy.

    And also making the walk on Saturday will be the likes of Joanderson Brito, Brad Tavares, Torrez Finney, Davey Grant, and Rhys McKee.

    UFC Vegas 105: Emmett vs. Murphy Betting Odds

    Listed below are the latest betting odds for UFC Vegas 105 (as of 4/4), courtesy of DraftKings.

    Main Card:

    • Josh Emmett (+260) vs. Lerone Murphy (-325)
    • Pat Sabatini (+190) vs. Joanderson Brito (-230)
    • Cortavious Romious (+110) vs. ChangHo Lee (-130)
    • Brad Tavares (-198) vs. Gerald Meerschaert (+164)
    • Ode’ Osbourne (+200) vs. Luis Gurule (-245)
    • Torrez Finney (-298) vs. Robert Valentin (+240)

    Preliminary Card:

    • Davey Grant (+120) vs. Daniel Santos (-142)
    • Diane Belbiţă (+650) vs. Dione Barbosa (-1000)
    • Rhys McKee (+130) vs. Daniel Frunza (-155)
    • Loma Lookboonmee (-700) vs. Istela Nunes (+500)
    • Victor Henry (-205) vs. Pedro Falcao (+170)
    • Martin Buday vs. Uran Satybaldiev
    • Vanessa Demopoulos (-108) vs. Talita Alencar (-112)
  • Lerone Murphy Expects To Follow Ilia Topuria’s Path To UFC Featherweight Title Shot

    Lerone Murphy Expects To Follow Ilia Topuria’s Path To UFC Featherweight Title Shot

    UFC featherweight contender Lerone Murphy is confident that a statement performance at the expense of Josh Emmett this weekend will net him a first shot at gold on MMA’s biggest stage.

    After an undefeated start to life in the UFC and recent wins over Edson Barboza and Dan Ige, Murphy has cracked the divisional top 10.

    Next, as he continues to pursue a climb up the ranks toward the title picture, “The Miracle” is tasked with getting the better of arguably the most powerful man at 145 pounds, knockout artist Emmett.

    The 40-year-old is no stranger to meeting unbeaten up-and-comers, having headline a Jacksonville event opposite then-future champion Ilia Topuria in mid-2023. After battering the American, Topuria went on to challenge and defeat Alexander Volkanovski to claim the belt.

    With that in mind, Murphy expects the same opportunity to await him should he avoid the dynamite in Emmett’s hands this Saturday night.

    “I’ve got a big job in front of me, a big task in front of me,” Murphy told talkSPORT. “But obviously we know with a win, I’ll be asking for a title shot for sure.

    “Ilia Topuria done it and I’ll be 16-0. So I feel like if I go out there and put on a good, solid performance and look championship worthy, then I think the UFC will give it to me,” Murphy added.

    And should that be the case, the Brit is also hoping for the same man who Topuria unseated last February to return to the throne.

    “I would say Volkanovski (is the preferred championship opponent), just because of the name value,” Lerone Murphy explained. “He’s a legend, and I think if you have Volkanovski on your record, like when you look back on your career, for me, it’s not really about money. It’s about status and what I can tell my kids and what I can look back on.

    “When you get old, all you’ve got is memories, and you’re looking back on what you’ve done. To be able to say, ‘I fought Volkanovski,’ would be a big one. I think he gets the job done next weekend,” Lerone Murphy continued. “So hopefully it’s me versus Volk. But like you said, he’s got a tough matchup. I’ve got a tough matchup. Let’s see what happens.”

    It’s evident that Lerone Murphy will have his eyes on next month’s UFC 314 main event for the vacant featherweight title between Volkanovski and Diego Lopes.

    First things first, though, the Manchester native must stall the late-career ambitions of Emmett, who is returning for the first time since a sickening KO of Bryce Mitchell 16 months ago.

  • Josh Emmett Sends Advice To Fans After Seeing Betting Odds For UFC Vegas 105 Main Event

    Josh Emmett Sends Advice To Fans After Seeing Betting Odds For UFC Vegas 105 Main Event

    UFC featherweight contender Josh Emmett is expecting to make a mockery of his underdog status in this weekend’s main event.

    Emmett is set to return from a 16-month layoff at Saturday’s UFC Fight Night inside the Apex, having not competed since his sickening knockout of Bryce Mitchell in December 2023.

    In his bid to regain momentum after that memorable result, the 40-year-old is tasked with stalling the rise of undefeated up-and-comer Lerone Murphy in the headline spot on April 5.

    Successfully doing so would see Emmett upset the odds. As pointed out to him at UFC Vegas 105 media day on Wednesday, the betting line currently has the veteran at +275.

    “The people that are betting, they love it when I’m a huge underdog,” Josh Emmett said. “What, +275? Bet the house.”

    The root of Emmett’s confidence? The belief that his already obscene power has only increased during his time away.

    “Over the last 14 months, we’ve been working on my power,” he said. “I promise you I’m so much more powerful than I was, so wait till that right hand connects.”

    The addition of even more power to Emmett’s dynamite hands is a scary prospect for the featherweight division and, in particular, Murphy.

    “The Miracle” has climbed into the 145-pound top 10 with a 7-0-1 record. He most recently got the better of the always game Dan Ige in Abu Dhabi last October.

  • Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy In The Works For UFC Fight Night Main Event At The Apex

    Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy In The Works For UFC Fight Night Main Event At The Apex

    A clash between hard-hitting featherweight contenders is targeted for the main event of the UFC Fight Night event in Las Vegas on April 5.

    Before heading to Miami to stage UFC 314 from the Kaseya Center, mixed martial arts’ leading promotion will kick off its schedule for April back at the Apex facility in Enterprise, Nevada.

    And the planned main event has now been revealed, with MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck reporting that an intriguing 145-pound battle between perennial contender Josh Emmett (19-4) and the surging Lerone Murphy (15-0-1) is in the works for the April 5 UFC Fight Night.

    Emmett last appeared back in the cage in December 2023. Before sitting out the entirety of 2024, the #8-ranked featherweight rebounded from consecutive losses by producing one of the most violent knockouts in recent memory at the expense of Bryce Mitchell.

    Looking to avoid falling to the same fate as “Thug Nasty” in a few months’ time will be Murphy, an undefeated Englishman who has risen the ranks with recent triumphs over Edson Barboza and Dan Ige.

    With this addition, the current fights expected to take place at the UFC Fight Night on April 5 are as follows:

    • Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy (featherweight main event)
    • Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Martin Buday (heavyweight)
    • Ode’ Osbourne vs. Luis Gurule (flyweight)
    • Rhys McKee vs. Daniel Frunza (welterweight)
    • Dione Barbosa vs. Diana Belbiţă (women’s flyweight)
    • Joanderson Brito vs. Pat Sabatini (featherweight)
    • Loma Lookboonmee vs. Ariane Carnelossi (women’s strawweight)
    • Robert Valentin vs. Torrez Finney (middleweight)
    • Vanessa Demopoulus vs. Talita Alencar (women’s strawweight)
    • Cortavious Romious vs. Chang Ho Lee (bantamweight)
  • Ranked UFC Featherweight Calls Brian Ortega Out For ‘Massive’ Clash At UFC London

    Ranked UFC Featherweight Calls Brian Ortega Out For ‘Massive’ Clash At UFC London

    Brian Ortega has not been the most active contender in the featherweight division for some time and yet, due to his high position in the rankings, he’s fairly consistently called out by his fellow 145-pounders. Though for a long time, it seemed like saying his name likely wouldn’t lead to anything, “T-City” did fight twice last year for the first time since 2018.

    After submitting Yair Rodriguez last February, the former two-time title challenger suffered a decision loss to Diego Lopes at UFC 306 in September meaning that he currently sits at #6 in the rankings. Five spots below him is one of the division’s most exciting additions in recent years who has won seven in a row since fighting to a draw on his UFC debut back in 2019.

    Lerone Murphy is remarkably the same age as Ortega but he still feels like the next generation of featherweight contenders in some ways. He also fought twice in 2024 where he secured his two biggest wins to date over Edson Barboza and Dan Ige.

    Having missed out on the opportunity to fight on home soil last year at UFC 304 in Manchester, he wants to put on a show for the UK fans when the Octagon returns to London, England on March 22 for a Fight Night event. When looking at the fighters who are above him in the rankings right now, a fight with Ortega would make a lot of sense for Murphy right now.

    “T-City” is still a highly regarded opponent who is coming off of a loss meaning that it makes sense for him to fight down the rankings next time out. “The Miracle” looked to shoot his shot via social media by getting the fans excited about the possibility of him facing off with the submission specialist at the O2 Arena.

  • ‘Future Champion’ – Fans React As Lerone Murphy Recovers From Early Knockdown To Beat Dan Ige At UFC 308

    ‘Future Champion’ – Fans React As Lerone Murphy Recovers From Early Knockdown To Beat Dan Ige At UFC 308

    Lerone Murphy earned his seventh consecutive win inside the Octagon at UFC 308 by defeating Dan Ige via unanimous decision.

    The Manchester fighter had to weather some heavy adversity in the opening round after he was dropped, with Ige pouring on the pressure to put him away.

    Murphy survived and was able to turn the fight on it’s head by producing a much better second round, striking off the back foot and outworking his opponent.

    Despite some grappling success from Ige in the third, it was the effective strikes that just about saw him take the final frame in order to earn the victory.

    It was another great display of resilience from the unbeaten fighter, who builds on his headline victory over Edson Barboza by adding another ranked opponent to his current streak.

    In his post-fight interview, Murphy called to face the #8-ranked Josh Emmett in what would be another great test for the rising contender.

    Fans reacted to his performance in a close fight via social media.