Lerone Murphy showcased a dominant performance against Josh Emmett at UFC Vegas 105, securing a unanimous decision victory and maintaining his undefeated record.
Murphy employed a strategic approach, consistently outstriking Emmett throughout the fight. He effectively utilized leg kicks and a sharp jab, keeping Emmett at bay and disrupting his offensive attempts. Emmett, known for his knockout power, struggled to find his rhythm and mount a significant offense.
The judges` scorecards reflected Murphy`s control, reading 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, all in favor of Murphy. This win elevates Murphy`s professional record to 16 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw.
Despite the clear victory, the crowd at the UFC APEX voiced their disapproval with boos, seemingly favoring Emmett. Murphy responded to the negative reaction with confidence, asserting his dominance. “16-0, what? Easy work,” he exclaimed to the audience, emphasizing his strategic game plan. “Intelligent performance. I was sound defensively… It was a quality performance.”
Emmett, seeking a knockout blow, faced consistent movement and precise strikes from Murphy. A clash of heads resulted in a cut on Emmett, but he remained aggressive, pursuing Murphy around the octagon.
In a notable moment, Emmett secured a powerful takedown, lifting and throwing Murphy to the ground. However, Murphy quickly regained his footing, neutralizing Emmett`s grappling advantage.
Murphy continued to target Emmett`s lead leg with persistent kicks, visibly frustrating Emmett and hindering his movement. Murphy`s diverse striking, including head kicks, kept Emmett guessing and unable to establish a consistent attack.
As the fight progressed into the later rounds, Murphy`s speed and varied strikes became increasingly difficult for Emmett to anticipate. Murphy also began landing impactful body kicks, further disrupting Emmett`s game plan.
Recognizing he was behind on points, Emmett intensified his pursuit of a knockout, focusing on power punches. Yet, Murphy skillfully evaded or blocked Emmett`s strongest strikes, maintaining his lead and control of the fight.
In the final round, Emmett`s desperation for a fight-ending blow was evident, but he couldn`t connect effectively. Murphy continued his strategy of leg kicks, jabs, and counter-strikes, securing the victory as the final bell rang.
While a decisive win, Murphy`s performance lacked a finish, a trend since his knockout of Makwan Amirkhani in 2021. Nevertheless, this victory over Emmett marks another step forward in Murphy`s climb in the rankings.
Looking ahead, Murphy expressed his ambition for higher-ranked opponents. “Obviously, I want a title but give me anybody in the top 5 or the top 3,” Murphy stated, eager to maintain momentum and fight actively, aiming for two more bouts this year.
