Islam Makhachev hopes to finally get a ranked opponent after picking up his fifth consecutive victory on Saturday at UFC on ESPN+ 7.

Makhachev (17-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) extended his winning streak when he picked up a unanimous decision over octagon newcomer Arman Tsarukyan (13-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) in the “Fight of the Night” at Yubileyniy Arena in St. Petersburg.

With a standout record of 17-1, Makhachev said he’s ready to test his skills against the very best at 155 pounds. He just needs someone on the other side to accept a matchup with him.

“I would like to call out the guys from the top 15 who are afraid to get kicked out of there,” Makhachev said post-fight at UFC on ESPN+ 7. “Because they fight only between each other, so they don’t get kicked out even if they lose. I urge them to stop being afraid and fight with guys who are not in the top 15.”

Makhachev was forced to fight hard at UFC on ESPN+ 7. Although he picked up scorecards of 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28, Tsarukyan put on a far more competitive performance than the pre-fight odds would’ve indicated. Despite that, Makhachev said he wasn’t caught off guard.

“The opponent didn’t surprise me at all, and he actually showed nothing,” Makhachev said. “Otherwise, I failed to show much more.”

Makhachev may not have been the most pleased with his effort, but he picked up his first UFC bonus and was able to perform in front of the fans of his home country.

“I am glad to fight in Russia because I felt an incredible support,” Makhachev said. “I especially remember how, during the fight, I heard the audience chanting my name.

For complete coverage of UFC on ESPN+ 7, check out the UFC Events section of the site.