Lerone Murphy calls out former title challenger who fought both UFC 314 headliners after UFC Vegas 105 win

Murphy defeated Emmett by unanimous decision to remain unbeaten in his MMA career, moving to 9-0 in his UFC tenure and moving up in the featherweight rankings. One of the UK’s top MMA stars, Murphy outpointed Emmett and frustrated the veteran brute from start to finish.

After getting the nod on the scorecards, Murphy was initially hesitant to call out a top name, but reversed course backstage.

Lerone Murphy calls out a big name after UFC Vegas 105 statement win

Murphy is one of several budding featherweight contenders moving up the rankings and closer to a potential title shot. After UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria‘s planned title vacation at UFC 314, all names are on the table for the division’s next few title fights.

One such name was on Murphy’s mind after UFC Vegas 105.

During the UFC Vegas 105 post-fight show, Murphy called out former UFC title challenger Brian Ortega for his next featherweight test.

“If I got a finish, I was going to call for the title,” Murphy admitted. “Where’s Brian Ortega ranked? Diego Lopes went up to get a title shot after fighting him. So let’s go, Brian Ortega!”

Ortega hasn’t fought since a loss to Diego Lopes at UFC 306. He’s lost three of his last four fights overall, including a unanimous decision defeat to Alexander Volkanovski for the featherweight title at UFC 266.

Volkanovski and Lopes are set to meet for the vacant featherweight title at UFC 314 next weekend in Miami. Regardless of who wins at UFC 314, Movsar Evloev is the likely next title challenger after an unbeaten run in the Octagon.

But Murphy is also on the verge of title contention after his impressive win at UFC Vegas 105. He likely will need at least one more win to make a solid case for a title shot.

Ilia Topuria’s vacated title opens the doors of the featherweight title picture

If Ortega accepts Murphy’s callout, it’ll be another veteran vs. budding contender matchup for both sides. Ortega has struggled with his activity level in recent years, and a fight with Murphy could allow him to return to the featherweight title picture.

Before defeating Emmett at UFC Vegas 105, Murphy earned recent wins over Josh Culibao, Dan Ige, and Edson Barboza. Murphy and fellow Top 10 contender Arnold Allen have helped bring a lot of attention to the UK featherweights.

Topuria’s move to lightweight turns the page on a new era in the UFC featherweight division, led by young stars like Lopes, Allen, and Murphy. In the coming months, Murphy has the opportunity to separate himself from the rest of the pack.