UFC

Lauren Murphy Set for UFC Return Against Rising Star Eduarda Moura in Nashville

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By
Garrett Kerman
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Garrett Kerman Sports Editor

Garrett Kerman also goes by the name of The Fight Analyst. He covers all combat sports, from MMA, to boxing, to even bare-knuckle. He is also very well-versed in all American sports when it comes to news and betting analysis. Whether you want betting advice or some breaking news, Garrett is your guy.

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Published10 Apr 2025

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lauren murphy

After a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, former UFC flyweight title challenger Lauren Murphy is set to make her long-awaited return to the Octagon. The 41-year-old veteran will face Brazil’s Eduarda Moura in a flyweight bout at UFC Fight Night on July 12 in Nashville, Tennessee. While the UFC has yet to officially confirm the matchup, sources close to the promotion have revealed the fight is in the works.

This clash represents a pivotal moment for both athletes: Murphy aims to re-establish herself as a top contender in the division, while Moura looks to continue her ascent as one of the flyweight division’s promising prospects.

Murphy’s Comeback: A Veteran’s Journey

Lauren Murphy (16-6 MMA, 8-6 UFC) last competed in January 2023, when she suffered a unanimous decision loss to Jessica Andrade. That defeat came after an impressive victory over former bantamweight champion Miesha Tate, showcasing Murphy’s resilience following her failed title bid against Valentina Shevchenko in September 2021. In that championship bout, Murphy endured a fourth-round TKO loss, ending a five-fight win streak that had propelled her into title contention.

At 41 years old, Murphy remains one of the most experienced fighters in the division. Known for her grit and durability, she has faced some of the toughest competition in women’s MMA over her decade-long career. Her return to action in Nashville marks an opportunity to prove she still belongs among the elite flyweights.

Murphy’s comeback also carries additional weight as she steps into the cage against a younger opponent with momentum on her side. A win could reignite her career, while a loss might signal the twilight of her time in the sport.

Moura’s Momentum: A Rising Star on the Rise

Eduarda Moura (11-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) enters this matchup riding high after an impressive debut in the flyweight division. The 31-year-old Brazilian secured a unanimous decision victory over Veronica Hardy last November, solidifying her place in the weight class after struggling with weight cuts at strawweight. Moura’s previous stint at 115 pounds saw mixed results: she defeated Montserrat Ruiz but fell short against Denise Gomes, with both bouts overshadowed by missed weight issues.

Now competing at flyweight, Moura appears rejuvenated and ready to make waves. Her technical striking and well-rounded skill set have garnered attention as she transitions into a division filled with established veterans and rising contenders alike. A victory over a seasoned opponent like Murphy would be a significant milestone for Moura and could fast-track her climb up the rankings.

This fight serves as a fascinating crossroads for both athletes. For Murphy, it’s about proving she can still compete with the next generation of fighters and remain relevant in an evolving division. For Moura, it’s an opportunity to build on her momentum and solidify herself as a legitimate threat among flyweights.

With Nashville playing host to this intriguing matchup on July 12, fans can expect an exciting clash of experience versus youth. Whether Murphy’s veteran savvy will prevail or Moura’s upward trajectory will continue remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: this fight could have major implications for both fighters’ futures in the UFC.