British Lerone Murphy beat veteran Edson Barboza by unanimous decision and secured victory at UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas.
Featherweight Murphy, 32, extended his unbeaten record to 14 fights and one draw.
All three judges scored a wide decision for Murphy, who received a $50,000 (£39,000) performance bonus for “fight of the night” at the UFC Apex.
“I came here to fight a war,” Murphy said.
“I had the most difficult path so far. I put in the work, keep climbing. I’m not really worried about the ratings; I’m just trying to get to that title.”
Brazilian Barboza, 38 years old, debuted in the UFC 14 years ago.
“I just eliminated a legend, Edson Barboza, who was on a two-fight winning streak,” Murphy said.
“I deserve recognition now. I was there with the best of the best. I just showed my worth. I will be champion. Simple.”
Murphy’s nose was badly damaged by a kick from Barboza in the first round.
The injury could force Murphy to sit out a fight in his hometown of Manchester, with UFC 304 will take place there on July 27th.
On the undercard, Zimbabwean welterweight Themba Gorimbo beat American Ramiz Brahimaj on points and secured his second consecutive victory.
