Jan Blachowicz (image via UFC / YouTube)

According to the oddsmakers, Jan Blachowicz’s reign as the UFC’s light heavyweight champ likely will continue, following UFC 267. But, the hard-hitting, Polish star says he’s not looking past, longtime contender, Glover Teixeira.

Teixeira has worked his way into another shot at the light heavyweight crown, courtesy of a five-fight winning streak. The Brazilian has long been regarded as one of the most dangerous light heavyweights in the game. But, according to Sports Betting Dime, the champ is a -300 favorite, while Teixeira is a +235 underdog in the UFC 267 odds.

While talking to James Lynch recently, however, Blachowicz made it clear he’s not looking past his 42-year-old opponent. In other words, the 28-year-old Blachowicz isn’t going to rush, trying to finish the perennial contender (quotes via Bloody Elbow).

“You cannot be too fast because he is a smart guy, an old fox,” Blachowicz said. “(He has) a lot of experience. He knows how to survive. He can grab you in his game so, you need to wait a little bit. Like (Alexander) Gustafsson, Gustafsson waited until the fifth round to knock him out. This is also something that I want to do. If I hit him hard, if I see that he will go down I will wait. ‘Okay, stand up, let’s go a little bit more.’ He will not catch me in his game. I’m going to be ready for it.”

“Every opponent is different, but I think that Jacare (Ronaldo Souza) is maybe a little bit similar,” he added. “Maybe if (Luke) Rockhold will take me down (he’s) a similar level on the ground. But, you know, both of them will not take me down. So, Glover also will not take me down. My wrestling right now is really good. So, we will see. Like it told you, every opponent is a little bit different. Different style, different moves, so, I have to be ready for completely something different this time.”

When Teixeira steps into the Octagon on Saturday, he’ll be fighting for the light heavyweight title for the first time since 2014. At UFC 172, Teixeira faced longtime champ, Jon Jones, and lost via unanimous decision.

UFC 267 will take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.