Josh Emmett: How Old Is | Ranking | Ribs | VS Lerone Murphy | Wife

Josh Emmett has built a reputation as one of the hardest hitters in the featherweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Known for his explosive knockout power, relentless wrestling background, and resilience, Emmett has spent years competing against elite fighters in the 145-pound weight class.

Fans frequently search for information about Josh Emmett’s age, ranking, injuries such as his ribs issue, his fight against Lerone Murphy, and details about his wife. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the veteran UFC fighter—from his early life to his most recent bouts.

Who Is Josh Emmett?

Josh Emmett is an American professional mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC featherweight division. Born on March 4, 1985, in Phoenix, Arizona, Emmett grew up with a passion for wrestling and combat sports.

He later moved to Sacramento, California, where he trained with the renowned gym Team Alpha Male, known for producing world-class fighters. Over the years, Emmett has become one of the most dangerous knockout artists in the featherweight division.

He turned professional in 2011 and made his UFC debut in 2016, quickly establishing himself as a top contender. His combination of heavy power, wrestling ability, and durability helped him climb the rankings and compete against some of the best fighters in the world.

Josh Emmett Age: How Old Is He?

Josh Emmett was born on March 4, 1985, making him 40 years old as of 2025.

While many fighters begin to decline physically as they approach their 40s, Emmett has proven he can still compete at the highest level. His ability to maintain elite power and cardio has allowed him to remain relevant in the stacked featherweight division.

Several factors contribute to his longevity:

• Strong wrestling foundation

• Elite physical conditioning

• Disciplined training routines

• High fight IQ

Despite being one of the older fighters in the division, Emmett continues to challenge younger contenders and remains a respected veteran inside the octagon.

Josh Emmett UFC Ranking

Josh Emmett has spent years ranked among the top fighters in the UFC featherweight division. As of late 2025, he is ranked around #11 in the UFC featherweight rankings.

During his career, Emmett climbed as high as the top five in the division. His impressive run between 2019 and 2022, which included several high-profile victories, helped him earn a shot at the interim featherweight title.

Career Highlights in the Rankings

• Reached Top-5 UFC featherweight rankings

• Earned an interim title opportunity

• Multiple Fight Night bonuses

• Several knockdowns record in the division

Even though younger fighters continue to enter the division, Emmett’s knockout power keeps him dangerous against any opponent.

Josh Emmett Rib Injuries and Health Issues

Injuries have played a significant role in Josh Emmett’s career. Like many MMA fighters, he has battled multiple physical setbacks during his time in the UFC.

One of the concerns fans often discuss is rib injuries, which can occur due to the intense grappling and striking involved in mixed martial arts training and fights.

While rib injuries are common in MMA, they can be particularly painful because they affect breathing, movement, and the ability to throw powerful strikes. Fighters usually need several weeks of recovery before returning to full training.

Emmett has shown remarkable resilience throughout his career, returning from injuries to continue competing at a high level.

His toughness and dedication to recovery have been key factors in extending his fighting career well into his late 30s and early 40s.

Josh Emmett vs Lerone Murphy

One of the most talked-about fights in recent years was Josh Emmett vs. Lerone Murphy, which took place on April 5, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.

Lerone Murphy entered the fight as an undefeated contender looking to climb the rankings.

Fight Overview

• Event: UFC Fight Night (UFC Vegas 105)

• Date: April 5, 2025

• Division: Featherweight

• Main Event

Murphy ultimately defeated Emmett via unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.

The fight showcased Murphy’s technical striking and movement, while Emmett relied on his trademark power punches and wrestling pressure.

What the Fight Meant for the Division

Murphy’s victory helped him continue his unbeaten streak and move closer to title contention. Meanwhile, Emmett remained a dangerous veteran capable of testing rising prospects.

Despite the loss, Emmett’s performance proved that he still has the ability to compete with top-ranked fighters.

Josh Emmett Fighting Style

Josh Emmett’s fighting style combines wrestling fundamentals with explosive knockout power.

Key Strengths

1. Knockout Power
Emmett is known for his devastating right hand, which has knocked down multiple opponents.

2. Wrestling Background
He wrestled for many years before transitioning to MMA, giving him strong takedown skills.

3. Durability
Emmett has absorbed heavy damage in several fights but continues to show incredible toughness.

4. Pressure Fighting
He constantly moves forward, forcing opponents to deal with his power.

These attributes have made him one of the most entertaining fighters in the featherweight division.

Josh Emmett Record and Career Highlights

Josh Emmett has compiled an impressive professional MMA record throughout his career.

Professional Record

• Wins: 19

• Losses: 5

His victories include several knockouts and highlight-reel finishes that earned him performance bonuses.

Notable Wins

Emmett has defeated several respected fighters during his UFC career, including:

• Bryce Mitchell

• Shane Burgos

• Dan Ige

His knockout win over Bryce Mitchell in 2023 was especially memorable and helped him bounce back after earlier setbacks.

Josh Emmett Wife and Personal Life

Outside the octagon, Josh Emmett leads a relatively private life. He is married to his wife Vanessa Emmett, who has supported him throughout his MMA career.

The couple has been together for several years, and Vanessa is often seen supporting him during fight events and training camps.

Despite the intense nature of his career, Emmett maintains a balanced lifestyle that includes:

• Training and recovery

• Family time

• Community involvement

His grounded personal life has helped him stay focused on his goals inside the octagon.

Early Life and Wrestling Background

Before entering MMA, Josh Emmett had a successful background in amateur wrestling.

He competed at:

• Sacramento City College

• Menlo College

During his college years, he wrestled at the NAIA level and later transitioned into mixed martial arts.

Wrestling remains one of the foundational aspects of his fighting style.

Training Camp and Team Alpha Male

Josh Emmett trains with Team Alpha Male, one of the most respected MMA gyms in the United States.

The gym has produced numerous UFC fighters, including:

• Urijah Faber

• TJ Dillashaw

• Cody Garbrandt

Training alongside elite fighters has helped Emmett sharpen his skills and remain competitive against younger athletes.

Future of Josh Emmett in the UFC

Although Emmett is now in the later stage of his career, he still has the potential to deliver exciting fights.

Possible future matchups could include:

• Rising contenders

• Top-10 featherweights

• Veteran matchups

His experience and knockout power make him a valuable competitor in the UFC roster.

Josh Emmett Career Stats

FAQs About Josh Emmett

How old is Josh Emmett?

Josh Emmett was born on March 4, 1985, making him 40 years old as of 2025.

What is Josh Emmett’s UFC ranking?

He is ranked around #11 in the UFC featherweight rankings.

Who won Josh Emmett vs Lerone Murphy?

Lerone Murphy defeated Josh Emmett by unanimous decision on April 5, 2025.

Does Josh Emmett have a wife?

Yes, he is married to Vanessa Emmett.

What weight class does Josh Emmett fight in?

He competes in the UFC featherweight division (145 lbs).

What is Josh Emmett known for?

He is known for his knockout power, wrestling background, and aggressive fighting style.