The UFC is under fire from fans after appearing to overlook Lerone Murphy as the next challenger for Alexander Volkanovski’s featherweight title.
After Volkanovski reclaimed his championship by defeating Diego Lopes at UFC 314, Murphy seemed the obvious next opponent. The British contender extended his unbeaten run to nine fights with a stunning spinning-elbow knockout of Aaron Pico at UFC 319, making a strong case for a title shot.
However, recent social media posts from Murphy have hinted that the promotion may be moving in a different direction — possibly toward a Volkanovski vs Lopes rematch instead. Lopes recently defeated Jean Silva in September, fueling speculation that he could get another shot at the belt despite losing decisively to Volkanovski earlier in the year.
Fans have voiced their anger online, calling the rumored rematch “a joke” and “complete garbage.” One fan wrote, “No way they are wasting our time with Lopes vs Volk 2,” while another added, “You couldn’t have scripted a clearer contender than Lerone Murphy.”
Even Volkanovski himself previously called the Murphy fight a “no-brainer” following UFC 319. “You get a guy who scores a massive knockout on a nine-fight win streak — it’s a no-brainer,” he said on his YouTube channel. “December is looking good. Let’s make it happen, Lerone Murphy — congratulations, see you soon.”
As of now, the UFC has yet to officially announce Volkanovski’s next opponent, but if Lopes is indeed granted a rematch, it appears the decision will face heavy scrutiny from fans and fighters alike.
