Lerone Murphy is frustrated about being passed over for a UFC featherweight title shot against Alexander Volkanovski, who he believes will retire soon, and is now preparing for a potential fight in London, hoping for a future title opportunity.
Lerone Murphy’s still grappling with being overlooked for a title shot. Diego Lopes snagged a rematch with featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 325 in January, leaving Murphy on the sidelines.
Despite a 10-fight unbeaten streak, including a jaw-dropping spinning back elbow knockout over Aaron Pico, Murphy’s chance slipped away. The sting of missing out on fighting a legend like Volkanovski is palpable.
Volkanovski hasn’t hinted at his plans post-fight, but Murphy’s convinced retirement’s on the horizon for the champ. “Now I don’t get the chance to fight Volkanovski,” Murphy lamented to Demetrious Johnson on his podcast.
Facing Volkanovski would’ve been monumental. “That’s a legend,” Murphy said, yearning for the opportunity to test his skills and add Volkanovski’s name to his resume. He feels favoritism played a role in the decision.
Murphy believed his short-notice fight against Pico at UFC 319 would seal the deal for a title shot. That vicious knockout was supposed to be his ticket.
Yet, Lopes gets another chance after a win over Jean Silva, while Murphy waits. “That’s what I thought that trade was,” Murphy reflected, frustrated by the situation.
With the title shot out of reach, Murphy’s eyeing a March fight when the UFC returns to England. It’s his home turf, but he’d trade it for a shot at the title any day.
No official offers yet, but Murphy sees two potential opponents: Movsar Evloev or Aljamain Sterling. “To me, that’s the same fight,” he said, preparing for either challenge.
Ideally, a title bout with Volkanovski was the dream, but Murphy’s moving on, believing retirement is imminent for the champ. Volkanovski’s departure could elevate the stakes for Murphy’s next fight.
“If Volkanovski wins, it’s a vacant title, my fight might be for the title,” Murphy mused. “That’s what I’m hoping for. Maybe, maybe not, we’ll see.”