Now 2-0 at welterweight, Chidi Njokuani calls for top-15 opponent next: ‘I’m shooting for that title shot’

October 13, 2024 1:50 pm ET

LAS VEGAS – UFC gold if the goal for Chidi Njokuani, but he understands several steps need to be taken before that can turn into reality.

The UFC veteran is now 2-0 since dropping to the welterweight division, as he defeated Jared Gooden in a unanimous decision in the main card of Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 244. Now, Njokuani (24-10 MMA, 4-3 UFC) wants to test himself against the top 15 of the division in hopes to get closer to his ultimate goal.

“I’ll fight whoever, but I’m looking for somebody in the top 15 – maybe a bigger name, so I can start rising up in the rankings and getting my name out there a little more,” Njokuani said at the UFC Fight Night 244 post-fight press conference. “I’ll fight whoever. If a good opportunity comes by soon, I’ll take it. I’ll just go back with my management and see how they feel about everything.”

Njokuani, 35, has almost seen it all now 35 fights into his professional MMA career. Although some may dismiss his title chances, he believes there’s still time for him to get to a UFC title.

“It may sound crazy to a lot of people, but I’m shooting for that title shot,” Njokuani said. “I still believe I can get it.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 244.

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