UFC's Jonathan Pearce aims to make name for himself vs. Darren Elkins: 'I belong in the top of the division'

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Jonathan Pearce hopes a win over Darren Elkins is what skyrockets his UFC career.

Since returning to 145 pounds, Pearce (11-4 MMA, 4-1 UFC) has racked up four straight wins, including a TKO finish of Makwan Amirkhani in July.

In Elkins (27-10 MMA, 17-9 UFC), Pearce faces a staple of the featherweight division, and he’s looking to take him out when they square off at UFC on ESPN 42 on Dec. 3 in Orlando, Fla.

“I’m happy with the matchup,” Pearce told MMA Junkie. “After I win this one, that’ll be five straight, and I’m looking to take on as many names as I can and build my resume.”

He continued, “I believe I belong in the top of the division, top 15, top 10. So whoever’s injured, you better get ready, because ‘JSP’ is coming.”

Pearce was able to overwhelm Amirkhani en route to a second-round finish at UFC Fight Night 208 in London. But Pearce knows when fighting Elkins, he’s facing an experienced fighter who has no quit in him.

“I feel honored to be able to fight a veteran of the sport and also make a name for myself and thankful that he took the fight,” Pearce said.

He continued, “Elkins has a little bit more heart than the last guy, so his cardio is gonna be a little bit better. He’ll stay in the fight a little bit longer, and my goal is not to make this a 15-minute fight, finish this fight.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie event hub for UFC on ESPN 42.