Some critics may question Evloev’s ground-heavy approach, yet the third-ranked Brit gave it everything he had to make the fight exciting and defend his undefeated record. Despite this, Movsar Evloev managed to preserve his winning streak and moved closer to a potential title shot against champion Alexander Volkanovski next. For Murphy, however, the fight marked the first loss of his professional career. Nevertheless, there are still several high-level matchups available for Murphy that could lead him to another title shot down the line. Here’s a look at what could be next for him.
Lerone Murphy vs. Diego Lopes emerges as the most logical showdown
If the UFC wants to line up the most logical next opponent for Lerone Murphy, Diego Lopes makes the perfect choice. The second-ranked featherweight sits at a pivotal point in his career. Over his last three fights, the two-time title challenger went 1-2, winning against a ranked opponent while losing a title shot to Alexander Volkanovski.
Lopes first faced Volkanovski in April last year at UFC 314 for the vacant featherweight belt. The two fighters battled fiercely over five straight rounds, but Volkanovski emerged victorious. Later that year, Lopes bounced back with a knockout win over sixth-ranked Jean Silva. Despite entering as the underdog, Lopes relied on his experience to put Silva to sleep with a decisive punch, which earned him another shot at Volkanovski, although Volkanovski won again.
Marc Goddard just took a point from Movsar Evloev after a low blow in the fourth round
#UFCLondonpic.twitter.com/4cp3PnQADt
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 21, 2026
A matchup between Lopes and Murphy would now deliver one of the most compelling fights in the division, as the two have never met inside the Octagon. The fight would showcase Lopes’ sharp striking and ground game against ‘The Miracle’s dynamic, high-pressure style, exactly the kind of clash fans crave. Furthermore, a win for Murphy would push him closer to another title shot and keep his championship hopes alive.
Fighting Yair Rodríguez may cement Murphy’s place in the top five
If the UFC wants to push Lerone Murphy to the next level, they could match him against Yair Rodriguez for one of the most exciting fights in the division. The No. 4-ranked contender has cemented his place among the featherweight elite, building his reputation over years of high-level competition. Rodriguez has faced some of the division’s best, including former BMF champion Max Holloway, BJ Penn, Dan Hooker, Josh Emmett, and Alexander Volkanovski. Although he has experienced ups and downs in recent years, he remains one of the toughest and most challenging opponents in the division.
Rodriguez also ranks as one of the division’s most unpredictable and dynamic strikers, backed by his Taekwondo expertise. Therefore, a fight against Lerone Murphy after UFC London would deliver a striking-heavy showdown that fans would love. Murphy’s own striking-heavy style ensures this matchup would be a classic striker-versus-striker matchup. Moreover, Rodriguez bounced back strongly after back-to-back losses to Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega, making him a perfect opponent to test Murphy while giving the UFC a fight they can promote effectively.
A fight against Jean Silva gives Murphy his biggest name and statement yet
The No. 6-ranked featherweight Jean Silva has quickly become one of the most exciting strikers in the division, captivating fans with his aggressive style. Since he debuted under Dana White’s banner, Silva has shot up the ranks like a meteor, moving from newcomer to the brink of the top 5. Consequently, a clash with a top-5 fighter, such as Lerone Murphy, could serve as the perfect next step in his rise.
Silva recently stunned the MMA world when Dana White and UFC matchmakers, including Hunter Campbell, offered him a title fight. He also hinted that the promotion might bypass the UFC London headliner winner, clearly showing just how unpredictable matchmaking has become.
At the same time, the UFC continues to deliver top-tier entertainment as fans and analysts debate potential matchups. So, what fight do you think would make a compelling return for Lerone Murphy in the Octagon? Share your thoughts below.
