Overview

• Lerone Murphy delivered a first-round spinning-elbow knockout of Aaron Pico at UFC 319 to stake his claim as a top contender.
• Champion Alexander Volkanovski publicly identified Murphy as his preferred December opponent following the emphatic finish.
• Murphy said a December bout would give him time to rest and refine his skills before challenging for the belt.
• UFC president Dana White suggested Murphy’s performance amounted to a title-eliminator victory and hinted at an imminent booking.
• Movsar Evloev’s planned challenge was derailed by scheduling issues, clearing the way for Murphy’s title push.