Overview

• Murphy accepted the co-main slot just three weeks out after Movsar Evloev pulled out of the originally scheduled bout.
• DraftKings lists Pico at –250 to Murphy’s +205, making the debuting, unranked prospect the betting favorite.
• Pre-fight analysis highlights Murphy’s rangy striking and footwork against Pico’s explosive wrestling and boxing, with most previews tipping a Pico decision.
• UFC president Dana White defended slotting Pico into the co-main event, citing the matchup’s high-profile stakes and fan interest in the former prospect.
• Pico has drawn motivation from his family, recalling how his four-year-old son cheered that his dad was finally a UFC professional.