UFC title contender calls for a fight between undefeated fighters and Diego Lopes' conqueror; find out why.

Lerone Murphy is undefeated as a professional. Photo: Reproduction/X.

Amidst a scenario of uncertainty in the featherweight category (up to 65,7 kg), Lerone Murphy has been trying to find ways to solidify himself as the next to fight for the title. Therefore, he went public this Thursday (29) to challenge another big name in the division: Movsar Evloev . Both undefeated and members of the top 5, the two athletes were passed over in favor of Diego Lopes , who faces Alexander Volkanovski in the main event of UFC 325.

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In an interview on the podcast 'Pound 4 Pound', hosted by Henry Cejudo and Kamaru Usman , the Briton argued that a fight between the two would be an opportunity to isolate a legitimate challenger for the featherweight title (up to 65,7 kg). Currently, Evloev and Murphy occupy the first and fourth positions in the ranking, respectively.

“Give me Evloev – the toughest fight. This is the most important matchup there is. If he doesn’t cling to the fight and make it boring, it would be a sensational fight. Everyone says it’s either me or him next in line, so let’s eliminate one and start the real fight,” he stated.

“Everyone says it's either me or Evloev that's next in line, so let's eliminate one”

Lerone Murphy wants to fight Movsar Evloev

“Give me Evloev – the hardest fight. That's the biggest matchup to make. If he doesn't hold on and make it boring, it would be a banger. Everyone says… pic.twitter.com/AStSzt8yXj

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 29, 2026

Movsar Evloev is Diego Lopes' tormentor.

M. Evloev (left) defeated Diego Lopes (right) in 2023. Photo: Reproduction/X

The Russian was the first opponent to face Franja in the UFC. At the time, the Brazilian accepted the fight with little notice after Bryce Mitchell 's injury . Despite the short preparation time, Lopes managed to create danger on several occasions with submission attempts. Nevertheless, Evloev won by unanimous decision.

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