Murphy targets top 10 spot with win over Ige at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi

UFC featherweight contender Lerone Murphy is ready to return to the octagon at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi.

He will face veteran Dan Ige in a pivotal featherweight bout. The at Etihad Arena is headlined by Ilia Topuria’s title defence against Max Holloway, but Murphy promises to be involved in one of the evening’s most spectacular fights.

For Murphy, fighting in Abu Dhabi holds special significance, as it is where he made his UFC debut in 2019. Reflecting on his experiences in the Middle East fighting capital, Murphy called Abu Dhabi “a special place” adding, “the hospitality and crowd are great, and it’s always a blessing to fight there.”

Undefeated and with an impressive fight record, Murphy is set to test himself against a tough and experienced fighter in Ige. Yet his mindset remains sharp and focused, treating every fight with the same level of preparation and intensity.

“Danny is a tough, experienced fighter, but I feel ready for the challenge,” he said of his fight at UFC 308, which is held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). “I’ve grown a lot since my last fight, and I’m looking forward to putting on a great performance.”

Murphy, rising through the ranks, is confident this bout in Abu Dhabi will push him into the top 10. “I believe winning this fight will put me in the top 10. Ige has been in the top 15 for a while now, and he’s a well-respected name in the division. Beating someone like him, especially after my win against Edson Barboza, will solidify my place as a top contender. After this, I’ll be looking at someone in the top five,” Murphy said. Ige, known for his power and wrestling, is expected to bring a well-rounded game to the cage, but Murphy feels confident in his own abilities. “He’s a power puncher with good wrestling, but like everyone, he has weaknesses, and that’s what we’re working on in camp,” added Murphy, emphasising that whoever executes their game plan better on the night will walk away victorious.

Despite his undefeated record, Murphy is aware of the unpredictable nature of MMA: “Being undefeated is great, but on the night, it doesn’t really matter. Anything can happen, and that’s why people love this sport.”

Murphy has been making improvements across the board, particularly with some backroom changes, and he is eager to showcase his refined skills. “Since my last fight, I’ve been working with a new boxing coach and everything’s coming together now. I’m excited to show that in this fight,” he said.