Lerone Murphy is ready to make a statement in his upcoming featherweight clash with Aaron Pico. The bout will co-headline UFC 319, which takes place at the United Center in Chicago this Saturday.
Murphy, 34, boasts an undefeated 16-0-1 professional record. He currently ranks No.6 in the UFC featherweight rankings. His last fight was an impressive unanimous decision win over Josh Emmett, bringing him closer to a title shot.
Pico, 29, enters UFC 319 with a 16-4 record from his time in Bellator. After receiving his release from the PFL, he now brings his skillset and plenty of hype to the UFC.
The bout came together rather quickly. Originally, Pico was scheduled to face Movsar Evloev at UFC Abu Dhabi last month. However, when Evloev withdrew, Murphy seized the opportunity to step in for the co-main event at UFC 319.
During an interview with Card Player, Murphy discussed welcoming Pico to the UFC. He praised the former Bellator star’s skill, but remains confident he will secure the victory.
“I think it’s probably the toughest match-up I’ve had so far in my career stylistically and it’s going to be a great fight,” Murphy said. “I think I can find holes and I believe I’m going to come out victorious.”
Murphy added that he plans to put on a memorable performance and make a statement at Pico’s expense.
“I want to go out there and make a statement. And, I want to finish him,” Murphy said.
Lerone Murphy Opens Up About Being Underdog Against Aaron Pico
Murphy also shared his thoughts on being the underdog for his upcoming bout against Pico. According to FanDuel, Murphy is listed as a -166 underdog, with Pico at a +130 favorite.
Despite being the underdog, Murphy is excited to prove the oddsmakers wrong.
“I prefer to be an underdog,” Murphy told Card Player.
“I believe I do my best work with no pressure, which might be strange to some,” Murphy said. “I’m less hesitant and I let it all go and that’s what you’re going to see.”
Murphy Eyes UFC Featherweight Title Shot
Murphy is eyeing a UFC featherweight title shot against Alexander Volkanovski and believes he is on the right track.
Speaking with Card Player, Murphy explained his willingness to fight anyone who can push him toward a title shot. He admitted that he thought his next fight would be against No.5 ranked Arnold Allen.
While a fight with Allen still interests him, Murphy may not need it. If he beats Pico on short notice, especially with a finish, he could possibly secure the next title shot.
“I’m looking at anything to get to the title. I’ll fight anybody to get to [Volkanovski],” Murphy said. “I did think I would’ve been fighting [Allen], but if the UFC wants it and he wants to, we can do it in the UK. I don’t think it’s going to happen for now.”
Although a fight against Allen interests him, one would have to assume that Murphy could receive a title shot instead. If he defeats Pico on relatively short notice, especially with a finish, perhaps a title shot could be next.
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