Lerone Murphy remains one of the most underrated fighters in the UFC, and it’s time that changed. Murphy is on an absolute tear, boasting an 8-0-1 record in the UFC, including dominant main event wins over Josh Emmett and Edson Barboza. Despite his impressive performances inside the cage, the respect he receives outside of it falls far short of what he deserves. Many critics labelled his win over Emmett as “boring,” seemingly expecting Murphy to stand and trade with one of the hardest hitters in featherweight history. But in doing so, they ignore the exceptional skill and fight IQ that Lerone Murphy brings to the table.
To become a champion in the UFC, a fighter needs a diverse skill set, and you’ll struggle to find anyone more well-rounded at 145 pounds than Murphy. “The Miracle” combines high-level grappling with some of the cleanest striking in the organisation. Add to that his bottomless gas tank and iron chin, Murphy is a nightmare matchup for anyone in the division. He consistently outsmarts and frustrates opponents with elite footwork, with power punchers like Emmett and Barboza neutralised by Murphy’s movement and control of distance.
So, the question is: who’s next for the Mancunian?
Lerone Murphy vs. Diego Lopes
Murphy deserves a shot at the top five. Riding an eight-fight win streak—surpassed only by Movsar Evloev in the featherweight division—Murphy can’t be denied much longer. With Yair Rodriguez somehow rumoured to be next in line for a title shot, and Evloev reportedly set to face Aaron Pico in July, one clear and exciting option remains: Diego Lopes.
This would be a stylistic dream matchup for true MMA fans. Fresh off one of the best title fights in recent memory, Lopes has cemented himself as one of the most dangerous featherweights on the planet. A true fan favourite, the Brazilian brings dynamite in his hands and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu arsenal few can match. This fight could make the perfect co-main event for UFC 320 in Guadalajara. While the layoff would be longer than Murphy originally hoped for, a bout with the #2-ranked Lopes would be worth the wait. Lopes often finds success against fighters who retreat in straight lines, capitalising on their hesitation with explosive entries. But those openings likely won’t appear against someone with footwork as slick and evasive as Murphy’s, providing an intriguing chess match. A win over Lopes would almost certainly put Murphy in position for a number-one contender bout—if not a direct title shot.
So, with the ideal next fight lined up, only one question remains:
Can Lerone Murphy achieve his dream of UFC gold?
Looking at the current landscape of the featherweight division, the answer appears to be yes. “The Miracle” is perfectly poised for a breakout moment. Aljamain Sterling and Brian Ortega are both coming off losses, while fellow English contender—and potential future champion—Arnold Allen is currently sidelined with injury.
All signs point to Murphy being next in line, and a statement win over Diego Lopes could be the springboard he needs to earn his shot at the title. Murphy has always possessed the physical tools to be a champion, he has simply needed the opportunity. A cycling accident in 2022 nearly ended Murphy’s life, leading to a lengthy layoff. However, whilst many would have given up, Murphy only worked harder and is finally reaping the rewards for all his efforts. The time has finally arrived for Murphy to push himself into the title conversation, hopefully, the UFC will provide him with the opportunity.
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