“I’ll Be Champion in 2027” – Lerone Murphy Predicts Championship Win, Targets Diego Lopes & Yair Rodrigues For Return

British standout Lerone Murphy has remained silent since his first professional defeat this past March, but “The Miracle” recently broke his silence to reveal his intentions in the near future.

The number-three-ranked featherweight suffered a controversial majority decision loss to Movsar Evloev in the main event of UFC London this past March, in what essentially proved to be a world title eliminator. Evloev has since moved on to book a clash with reigning champ Alexander Volkanovski in a month’s time at UFC 334.

Speaking to Combat Evolved, Murphy reveals that the first etch in the loss column on his record has alleviated the pressure that comes with remaining unbeaten. Murphy also made a point of saying he did not perform to his finest standard, but takes solace in knowing that at his peak, he’s the best featherweight in the world and expects to be champion by this time next year.

“My path has always been like that. It’s never been straightforward. This was just something that needed to happen along the way. I almost got into the rhythm of winning the fight regardless, so this has kicked me in the gear and made me take everything seriously,” he revealed.

“It showed me that I’m the best in the world. I don’t think I performed like I could have and the fight was still so close. I know I’m going to get the championship sooner or later in 2027.

Since midway through his showdown with Evloev, the Manchester man has been dealing with a hip injury that he’s been rehabilitating over the summer. The time on the sideline has not only allowed him to rehabilitate, it’s also allowed him to assess his options moving forward at 145-pounds.

Murphy reveals that he’s targeting a spot on the Abu Dhabi card – the same night that his previous foe tackles Volkanovski on 24th October – the same place he made his UFC debut. 

However, if that’s not an option, he intends to return to action before the end of the year and has two spectacular opponents at the forefront of his mind. 

“I want to be fully fit for the next camp, but I want to start the camp healthy and get back out again this year. September or October. I want to get on the Abu Dhabi card. Anyone top five,” he stated. 

“For me it’s all business, I don’t have any personal business with anyone. It’s all about what gets me to the title again. I’m looking at Diego Lopes, Yair Rodrigues, any of them guys in the top five where a win would get me a title shot.”