Dustin Poirier will give Tony Ferguson the first shot at his lightweight title if he beats Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Poirier challenges the UFC champion in Abu Dhabi next weekend in Nurmagomedov's first defence since his win over Conor McGregor last October.
And he believes Ferguson - who is on a 12-fight win streak - is more than deserving of a shot at the 155lb belt.
Ferguson became the interim champion two years ago when he submitted Kevin Lee but was later stripped when he injured his knee before a scheduled fight with Nurmagomedov.
But he has continued his winning streak and could finally land his shot.
"One hundred percent it’s Tony Ferguson without a second guess," Poirier said. "Without any argument, it’s Tony Ferguson. No doubt.
“[But] I don't think about that type of stuff because 25 minutes with Khabib is all I can focus on right now. I can’t disrespect the work that needs to be done."
Nurmagomedov has never been beaten in MMA - but Poirier is confident he can be the first.
"I'm going out there to do something that has never been done," he added.
"How many times in our lives or in our careers do we have the chance to really do something great?
"These guys are building an arena for us to compete in. I'm travelling across the world for the biggest fight I can get possible.
"I'm confident in my skills, my ability, the work I'm putting in, my commitment to martial arts, my commitment to just getting in there and letting it all go.
"I'm confident that I can trust myself that when I get in there and they lock that door I'm the better fighter and I'm in there to win.
"When I lay in bed, I envision myself getting the belt and being undisputed champion."
