A former Queensland school teacher who took up boxing for self-defence is aiming to finish the year as the number two contender in the world.

Jeff Horn is currently ranked fourth in the WBO and IBF world rankings.

To become number two contender in the world, Horn would need to beat experienced German fighter Rico Mueller in Brisbane next month.

It would be Horn's first fight since he defeated former world champion Randall Bailey via technical knockout earlier this year.

"Randall Bailey was after basically that one shot, and he had that one shot killer power in him," Horn said.

"This guy probably doesn't have such a killer shot, but he does put the combos together and puts pressure on you walking forward."

A victory would see Horn move one step closer to a shot at a world title.

Current WBO welterweight champion Jessie Vargas will fight superstar Manny Pacquiao later this year.

If Pacquiao wins, Horn could end up securing a title fight against the Filipino brawler, who is widely regarded as one of the all-time greats.

"That's a dream fight for me," Horn said.

"He's one of the ones when I started watching boxing because I haven't been into it too much, he's one that's been up there and been an idol for me."

"To fight him, it'd be a great fight and I think I'd be competitive with him."

Horn will defend his IBF Intercontinental and WBO Intercontinental Titles in a 12-round bout at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Brisbane against German Rico Mueller on October 21.