Justin Gaethje set his sights on a showdown with Khabib Nurmagomedov after sweeping aside Donald Cerrone in Vancouver.
The 30-year-old from Arizona racked up his 21st professional win by stopping Cerrone in a brutal first-round KO.
The UFC Fight Night 158 main event was a meeting between two of the top five ranked lightweights in the world.
And Gaethje wants to go right to the top and fight Khabib next after sweeping past 36-year-old Cerrone.
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When asked about a potential next fight against Khabib or Conor McGregor, Gaethje responded: "The Irishman is retired.
"I want a real fighter. I want the winner of Tony (Ferguson) and Khabib."
Nurmagomedov against Ferguson has been mooted for UFC 245 at some point next year although it has yet to be made.
Saturday's win in Vancouver was Gaethje's third straight first-round knockout victory.
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He flew out the blocks and set the pace early with leg kicks before a big right hand signalled the beginning of the end for Cerrone.
The punch rocked the 36-year-old, who stumbled to the floor and was forced to survive an onslaught from his opponent before getting back to his feet.
The end was near, though, and a few punches later the referee stepped in, giving No 5 ranked lightweight Gaethje the victory.
Featured Image Credit:Topics:ย Justin Gaethje, UFC
