Lerone Murphy Defeats Josh Emmett by Decision at UFC Vegas 105

Lerone Murphy, despite not being the crowd favorite, outperformed Josh Emmett in the UFC Vegas 105 main event, maintaining his undefeated record.

Murphy delivered a technically superior performance, consistently outstriking Emmett in each round. He effectively neutralized the former interim title contender`s offense. Murphy utilized a strategy of wearing down Emmett with leg kicks and precise jabs throughout the fight.

The judges` scorecards read 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, all in favor of Murphy, awarding him a unanimous decision victory and improving his record to 16-0-1.

Following the announcement, Murphy was met with boos from the audience at the UFC APEX, who were largely supporting Emmett. Murphy responded by reminding the crowd of his win.

“It`s alright, 16-0, easy work,” Murphy exclaimed to the audience. “I just stuck to my game plan. He possesses knockout power, so I couldn`t afford any errors. It was an intelligent and defensively sound performance. I even dropped him with a left hand. It was a high-quality performance.”

While Emmett sought an opportunity to land a powerful strike, Murphy maintained distance, utilizing jabs and calf kicks. An accidental head clash caused a cut on Emmett`s face, but he continued to aggressively pursue Murphy.

Emmett surprised with a strong takedown, lifting and throwing Murphy to the ground. However, Murphy quickly returned to his feet, minimizing the impact of the takedown.

Murphy continued to target Emmett`s lead leg, visibly frustrating him and limiting his movement. Murphy mixed up his attacks, alternating between low and high kicks to keep Emmett off balance.

Murphy`s striking speed and variety became increasingly difficult for Emmett to anticipate as the fight progressed into the fourth round. Murphy also found success with body kicks to Emmett`s midsection.

Aware of being behind on points, Emmett focused on landing a knockout punch. Despite his efforts, Murphy consistently evaded Emmett`s power shots, sensing victory slipping away.

In the final round, Emmett desperately sought to connect with his powerful right hand, but faced the same challenges as before. Murphy maintained his strategy of leg kicks and jabs, effectively countering Emmett until the final bell.

Murphy delivered a solid, albeit not spectacular, performance, demonstrating his consistent ability to win, though his last finish was in 2021. He continues to ascend the rankings, adding a victory over Emmett to his record on Saturday night.

“Of course, I`m aiming for the title, but I`m ready to face anyone in the top 5 or top 3,” Murphy stated regarding his future plans. “I want to keep this momentum going and stay active with two more fights this year.”