Nate Marquardt believes he can show the world he is the best welterweight in the UFC - and is keen on taking on Georges St-Pierre.
St-Pierre has been sidelined through injury since late last year and was last seen inside the Octagon more than twelve months ago.
GSP, who is widely regarded as the best in the welterweight division, is expected to return to action later this year, with a main event fight with Carlos Condit at UFC 154 in November pencilled in.
And Marquardt, who become the Strikeforce Welterweight champion last weekend with a win over Tyron Woodley, is keen on a future title fight with the MMA legend.
"I really feel like it's my time. I'm one of the best in the world, and actually, I feel like I'm the best in the world, the best welterweight," he said.
"This is a sport where everybody at this level is going to be tough. But I feel like I'm the best in the world, and that's who I expect I'll be fighting for my next fight."
Marquardt has regularly trained with St-Pierre and insisted his claims were not a dig at the 31-year-old.
"It's not a shot at Georges, personally," he added.
"You know, we have talked about it, but we will have to cross that bridge when we get there."