Unbeaten British UFC fighter scores wild spinning elbow KO to continue collision course to title

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Aug 17, 2025 - 20:54

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Unbeaten British UFC fighter scores wild spinning elbow KO to continue collision course to title

Lerone Murphy staked his claim to a world title shot with a Knockout of the Year contender at UFC 319.

The British featherweight flattened Bellator standout Aaron Pico with a brutal spinning back elbow in the first round after taking the fight on three weeks’ notice.

Murphy knocked out Pico with a spinning elbow in the first round[/caption]

His latest triumph improved his impressive unbeaten record to 17-0-1 overall and 9-0-1 inside the UFC.

The Mancunian now finds himself in an extremely strong position to challenge for the 145lbs belt, and he took the opportunity to call out champion Alexander Volkanovski post-fight.

“This sport’s all about moments, and I just created one,” said Murphy.

“I needed something like this. I took the fight on three weeks’ notice.

“I believed in myself, and I knew the opportunity was there.

“I’m next in line – let’s go Volkanovski.”

Volkanovski was quick to respond, suggesting a date for the pair at the back end of this year.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the Aussie wrote: “See you in December @LeroneMurphy. Congrats.”

Murphy was all too happy to accept, replying: “December would be perfect for me.

“It gives me time to recharge, spend some time with the family and work on some bits and come back better.

The victory looks as though it will lead to a featherweight title shot[/caption]

View Tweet: https://t.co/9wmUYc6kSU

“December would be great to share the Octagon with one of the featherweight GOATS, adding another scalp to my already quality résumé.”

For all of his obvious qualities, Murphy hadn’t scored a highlight-reel knockout since 2021.

The 34-year-old had won his last five fights by decision, but the opportunity to make UFC brass sit up and take notice presented itself after weathering an early storm.

From the off, a relentless Pico forced Murphy up against the cage with a barrage of punches, where he used his elite Division I wrestling pedigree to dump the Brit on the canvas twice consecutively.

To Murphy’s credit, he was able to make his way back to his feet quickly, and after doing so for a second time, he landed a massive knee that echoed around the arena.

Pico took the shot well, but he was unable to stand up to the subsequent spinning back elbow, which left him flat on his back.