Mirsad Bektic Says He’s Done Being a Prospect After UFC 204 Win

Mirsad Bektic spoke with MMAjunkie following his win over Russell Doane at UFC 204. Some highlights are below:

On his undefeated run in the UFC: “It’s definitely time to be past prospect. I’ve been a prospect since I was like 4-0 as a pro and 9-0 as an amateur. I was 23 when I was a prospect. That speaks for itself. I’ll fight top-10 guys, and I want that top-10 money. Things have to make sense, and I have to keep doing my thing. Whoever they give me – calling out has never worked for me, so whoever they ask me to fight, I’ll say yes too. I’ve never backed out of anything, so I’ll just stay ready.”

On staking his claim for a higher spot: “Post-fight I went over to (UFC President Dana White) and told him, ‘Give me some chicken.’ It’s my mom’s 50th birthday, and I just told him. Back in July last year, when (Chad) Mendes fought (UFC featherweight champion Conor McGregor), before that fight I went up to Dana and shook hands with him and told him, ‘Hey Dana, I’m the one. I’m going to be your champ.’ He didn’t remember, but I reminded him of that today. I’m building a big foundation. Skyscrapers take time, so I’m going with the flow.”

On a possible title fight down the road: “I think (Alvarez vs. McGregor) is a great fight. I like McGregor. He’s doing his thing right now, and Alvarez, he’s a gangster. He’s a former Bellator champ, and he’s a UFC champ now. I’m very excited to see their fight. They have different styles. They both have different strengths, so I’m excited to see it. (I’ll fight McGregor) if he’s there. I’m not sure what his plans are. He won the featherweight belt, and it’s been a long time, and he hasn’t defended it. I don’t even know how long it’s been since he fought at featherweight. I would beat him now. I’d beat anybody.”