Originally scheduled to take on Nathaniel Wood at UFC 286 in an all-British clash. Lerone Murphy was left without an opponent after Wood suffered a knee injury that ruled him unable to compete. Adamant he wanted to stay on the card Murphy has finally got a new name to take on for the momentous event.
Stepping in to take on the undefeated prospect will be former LFA featherweight champion, Gabriel Santos. Santos has just signed with the UFC and will waste no time in making his debut. Fighting out of Brazil, Santos has made quite the name for himself amassing a stellar 10-0 record. With seven finishes to his name four via submission and three via KO/TKO.
Taking to social media to tease the bout Lerone said the following:
Lerone Murphy Fighting in London
When originally announced many fans were extremely excited to see Murphy back in the cage. After a long period of inactivity due to an accident suffered away from fighting, it was good to see Murphy with an upcoming bout.
When Nathaniel Wood was forced to withdraw from the bout with an injury, it appeared Murphy might no longer be competing in front of his home crowd. As his wait to make the UFC walk on home soil went on. However, perseverance has paid off and we finally have a fight.
With a professional record of 11-0-1, Lerone has made his mark since joining the UFC. Making four appearances in the octagon he has won three and drawn one. Facing some stiff competition, Murphy has finished two of his UFC wins, none more impressive than his last outing against Makwan Amirkhani. Stopping the Finish fighter with a brutal knee.
Undefeated and entering his prime years at 31. Murphy is one of the United Kingdom’s best and brightest talents. It’s great to see him remain on the card in a showcase bout.
What do you make of Lerone Murphy and his new opponent?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images