UFC flyweight Ben Nguyen made a resolution in 2017 to crack the promotion’s top-10 list. He checked that box.

This year, Nguyen (17-6 MMA, 4-1 UFC) has a goal to crack the top five, which is why a fight with Jussier Formiga (20-5 MMA, 3-4 UFC) is just what he needs.

“I plan on taking him out and taking his spot, and maybe even get a title shot,” Nguyen told MMAjunkie Radio.

The 29-year-old viral sensation takes on Formiga on Saturday at UFC 221, which takes place at Perth Arena in Perth, Australia. The two face off on the opening FS1-televised prelims following additional prelims on UFC Fight Pass before the pay-per-view main card.

At 4-1 in the octagon, Nguyen’s UFC record stands out among many top contenders. But he needs to face more marquee names, which is where Formiga comes in. The former Shooto champion’s cache remains strong despite several setbacks in the octagon.

Formiga’s grappling skills make him a particularly dangerous threat and a measuring stick for potential contenders. If Nguyen isn’t able to handle himself on the mat, his goal will be delayed.

“We’ve been working a lot of back defense and submission defense,” Nguyen said. “(Formiga’s) striking has been looking a little better. I wouldn’t say it’s one of the best, but it’s there.”

Nguyen is still best known for his fists, which helped him humble a heavily tattooed bully and got him a UFC contract. But he is open to the fight wherever it goes.

“In my head, there would be many ways to finish a guy,” he said. “You know me from the viral video. I’m more of a puncher counter-striker. But in my last fight, I ended up rear-naked choking Tim Elliott out of all people. So I feel like there’s so many different ways to finish, and if it’s there, I’ll take it.”

He’ll also take a step toward his next goal of meeting Demetrious Johnson in the octagon. Although Johnson (27-2-1 MMA, 13-1-1 UFC) has yet to find his equal, Nguyen believes he’s the guy to dethrone the champ.

“I feel like I have a different style than all the flyweights in the division,” Nguyen said. “Different footwork, different striking setups, so I feel like I have a better chance than all the other flyweights.”

For more on UFC 221, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.

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