Conor McGregor (photo via UFC.com)

By FCF Staff

Following Conor McGregor’s first round, stoppage win over Diego Brandao, some observers were surprised to see that the featherweight was voted into the UFC’s #9 ranking. While McGregor has impressed since arriving in the promotion, the Irish fighter has fought just three times in the Octagon, and has yet to face a top ranked opponent.

Well, on Saturday night, McGregor (15-2) will take on the #5 ranked Dustin Poirier (16-3) at UFC 178. In the latest edition of “UFC Tonight“, the featherweight had this to say when asked if defeating Poirier will validate his ranking:

“I’m already validated in my own mind and my team’s mind. It doesn’t matter what other people think,” said the 26 year-old McGregor. “I will put him away and I’ll get a title shot. I’ll go out and stiffen him up in the first round and will get the title shot.”

Poirier is currently riding a three fight win streak, which includes victories over Erik Koch, Akira Corassani and Brandao.

UFC 178 will be hosted by the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.