Evloev's gritty win crushes Murphy's title hopes
Movsar Evloev put a huge dent in Lerone Murphy's featherweight title dream as the Russian secured a majority decision victory at UFC London. In a fight seen by many as a number one contender contest at the O2 Arena, Evloev ground his British opponent down as the fight wore on to win, with two judges scoring it 48-46 in the Russian's favour and one deeming it a draw at 47-47. Manchester's Murphy had many good moments in a competitive contest but an injury to the 34-year-old's hip in the third round left Evloev finishing the fight stronger.
The defeat ends Murphy's 18-fight unbeaten streak, while Evloev, 32, extends his undefeated record to 20 fights and puts himself in prime position to face champion Alexander Volkanovski. Murphy is ranked third in UFC's featherweight rankings and is likely to need a landmark win over a high-ranked opponent to put himself back in the title picture. "Sorry for not giving you a fight.
Make sure Evloev gets a title shot. He deserves it," said Murphy, who remained positive despite defeat. "Yes, my hip popped in the third round, but no excuses.
I'll be back. I've got work to do, but i'll be back. " Despite some impressive wins from British fighters like Nathaniel Wood and Mason Jones, the atmosphere lacked the buzz of previous UFC shows in London.
On a card lacking stars from previous years like Tom Aspinall and Paddy Pimblett, Murphy was given a golden opportunity to bask in the spotlight but Evloev had other ideas. Murphy came into the contest after missing out on a title fight against champion Alexander Volkanovski in January, with Diego Lopes being given the opportunity instead. Murphy did not get the rousing reception from the home fans like Aspinall or Pimblett have in the past as he made a business-like walkout, but he was cheered as he stepped into the octagon.