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Jack Hermansson got back in the win column for the first time in nearly two years, defeating Joe Pyfer by unanimous decision at UFC Vegas 86 Saturday night.

Given its constant movement, Hermansson picked up his 24th professional win and wants to remain a significant asset to the 185-pound division.

One name Hermansson said he is targeting is Nassourdine Imavov, who defeated Roman Dolidze in the main event of UFC Vegas 85 a week prior.

“I just watched the rankings and I fought a lot of guys up there, and I obviously can’t fight an unranked opponent and go directly to the top, so I need to fight someone close to me in the rankings,” Hermansson told reporters following the win. "“I think he makes the most sense at the moment.” (H/T MMAJunkie)

Hermansson quickly complimented Pyfer's recent star power but said his experience made the difference in the win.

"He has an amazing story, he’s coming through the contender series, and he has a lot of eyes on him," Hermansson added. "He should get the shot like this, but then you also need to perform to take it to the next level, and I was not going to be that stepping stone.”

The victory gives Hermansson a chance to win back-to-back outings for the first time in over three years, as he has still yet to earn a UFC middleweight title shot.

The division is changing of guard, as Dricus du Plessis became the new title holder after upsetting Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 297 in January.

This article first appeared on FanNation MMA Knockout and was syndicated with permission.

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