Danny Roberts has a wily old warhorse standing in the way of his path to UFC London and a shot at the welterweight top 15.
Francisco Trinaldo, 43, seems to have been around forever and has 23 fights to his name in the organisation. His first professional contest was in 2006.
The Brazilian is in the twilight of his career and Roberts is looking to shroud him in darkness at UFC 274 this Saturday night.
Danny Roberts is looking for his third victory in a row when he faces Francisco Trinaldo
The Brazilian veteran (L) has more than 20 fights in the organisation and is hugely experienced
'Hot Chocolate' is riding high off two successive wins, most recently a split decision over Ramazan Emeev. He knows a third on the trot against such a recognisable name would be huge for his growth.
Beating Trinaldo on a big card with all the exposure that brings would no doubt set him up for a run at the division's stars.
'I'll 100 per cent be aiming for a top 15 guy after this one,' he exclusively told Sportsmail.
'If you look at the welterweight rankings and how stacked the division is, there's not much difference between the guys at 30 and the ones at 15.
'So for me it is about establishing myself, getting a name and we've got that. With that being said, I need to get the job done.
Roberts says he is in a great place mentally and physically ahead of the UFC 274 showdown
The Brit connects with a knee to the face of Ramazan Emeev during his victory last October
He added: 'There's a lot to be excited for, I've been waiting for a name that people who know the UFC know who he is. We've got that. The card, platform, exposure, all the elements are in place for me to be able to come in and shine, come away with it and set up nicely for a win streak and level up.
'We had UFC London which I unfortunately missed but then got blessed with this big card. I know 90 per cent of the fans in the UK will be watching, staying up to see me fight.
'I'm not overlooking this job. I'm going to deal with this guy, not have any medical suspensions or anything. I've already spoken to Sean Shelby, my agent has been going back and forth with him and there's a big chance I'll fight on the London card.'
So what of Trinaldo? Roberts admits it will be surreal to fight a man he grew up watching even before putting on the UFC gloves for the first time.
Trinaldo has won four of his last five, all by way of decision and is enjoying an Indian summer to his career.
Roberts feels that a win will elevate him towards the top 15 fighters in the division
'He's been around that long, he
