EDMONTON, Alberta, Canada – Aiemann Zahabi wants to take a step forward in his fighting career and he feels he has earned the right to claim it.

Zahabi (12-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) is coming off a dominant victory over former title contender Pedro Munhoz on Saturday. UFC Fight Night 246– a result that put him on a five-fight winning streak. With the win over Munhoz (20-10 MMA, 10-10 UFC), Zahabi hopes to secure a spot in the official UFC bantamweight rankings, and if not, he would still like to secure a ranked name for his next outing.

“It would be nice for me to wake up on Tuesday and be in the top 15,” Zahabi told reporters at the UFC Fight Night 246 post-fight press conference. “Otherwise, a big name appearing in the top 15 would also be great. I need to talk to Firas and Sean Shelby and see what the right timetable is for our return. Maybe they come back to Canada at the beginning of the year. If they do, I’ll be there. It’s never been easy for me to book a fight, but I’ve had two this year and I’m hoping for two or three next year.

Zahabi’s decision win over Munhoz is arguably his best career win, considering the Brazilian’s name value. He believes that not only did he show the world that he is a top talent at 135 pounds, but more importantly, he showed it to himself.

“I’m so happy,” Zahabi said when asked about his performance. “Now I feel like I’ve earned my place and I no longer have to be afraid to get in.” I should do it with courage and bravery, and I feel like I showed that tonight. I stood there for 15 (minutes).

To learn more about the card, visit MMA Junkie’s Event Center for UFC Fight Night 246.