Josh Emmett is set to make his UFC comeback in a main event fight against Lerone Murphy.
They will face each other at UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs Murphy on April 6th, with a potential shot at Ilia Topuria’s Featherweight title at stake.
Josh Emmett returns after a 16-month break since his last fight, where he knocked out Bryce Mitchell in the first round at UFC 296 in December 2023.
While such a long break could make him less sharp in the octagon, Lerone Murphy might be concerned about the reasons behind this time off for one of the UFC`s hardest hitters.
Josh Emmett Admits to Fighting at `Fraction of Myself` Before Break
Emmett has been absent from fighting since 2023. He explained that this was because he was not performing at his full potential. This extended period of recovery to regain peak condition is something Murphy will need to consider.
Speaking at the UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs Murphy media day live stream, Emmett said:
“I could have fought, but I feel like I owe it to myself, my coaches, my wife, my family, my fans, and the UFC. For the past few years, I haven’t been fighting at my best.”
“I’ve been fighting at a fraction of myself. So I needed to work on myself and get back to 100 percent. Now I’m fighting and training like I used to. You guys are going to see something special on Saturday night.”
“I know what 100 percent feels like, and I know what 30 percent feels like. And that’s how I’ve been fighting against the best in the world for the last few years.”
“And yes, there are fights I definitely want to have again. But first, I need to get past Lerone Murphy.”
Emmett`s current record is 19 wins and 4 losses in the UFC. If he says he was performing at 30%, his opponent should be worried about what he can do at 100%.
Lerone Murphy Seeks Title Shot with Victory Over Josh Emmett
While aware of Emmett`s refreshed state, Murphy is confident in his own abilities for the fight.
In an interview with talkSPORT, he stated that he needs to win this fight to earn a title shot. If Murphy maintains his undefeated record, he could follow Topuria`s path to becoming the Featherweight champion.
“But obviously, with a win, I’ll be asking for a title shot for sure.”
“Ilia Topuria did it, and I’ll be 16-0. So I believe if I go out there and deliver a good, solid performance and look like a champion, then the UFC will grant me the opportunity.”
“The Miracle” is currently undefeated in the UFC, with 15 wins and 1 draw out of 16 fights. With a 7-fight winning streak, he is feeling confident heading into his match with Emmett on April 6.
