Josh Thomson says fight against ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone might be in order on path to UFC title shot

On the heels of his history-making knockout (KO) of Nate Diaz at UFC on FOX 7 last month, Josh Thomson is already pining to get back into the Octagon.

As he eyes a direct path to a Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight title fight against division kingpin Ben Henderson, Thomson is willing to face whoever matchmakers put him up against, as long as it gets him closer to his shot at the gold.

Indeed, if he wants a crack at "Smooth's" strap, he'll need at least one, maybe two more impressive wins inside the eight-walled cage to prove his worth in a talent-rich division.

Speaking to reporters prior to UFC 160 (via MMA H.E.A.T), "The Punk" says a bout against Donald Cerrone might be the next logical step, seeing as how the rest of the 155-pound contenders are either tied up or already stomped out.

His words:

"I'm talking, like who's next? I'm assuming like, probably Cerrone if he wins. I just beat K.J. so I don't see that happening. Nate's out for I don't know how long because of his suspension, so, I don't really see anyone else in the top 10 that I think they are going to have me fight. I think [Cerrone is] the only option that they will probably give me if he wins tonight. If he doesn't win, then, I've already beat K.J. If it gets me to the shot at the title, whoever they want me to fight."

"Cowboy" did get the "W" in Las Vegas, Nevada, as he bloodied up Strikeforce import K.J. Noons (see the carnage here) en route to a unanimous decision victory at UFC 160. The win got him back on track after being kicked silly by Anthony Pettis at UFC on FOX 6 last January.

And while it's too soon to determine who either man will face next, a showdown between the two scrappy lightweights is definitely one to consider.

Meanwhile, T.J. Grant is the next contender to Henderson's lightweight throne, as he earned his title shot the old fashioned way by viciously knocking out Thomson's gym stablemate Gray Maynard last weekend (May 25, 2013) in "Sin City."

And yes, Josh is game to fight anyone they put in front of him, however, he is adamant he won't ever fight his friend, "The Bully," on his way to the title.

What say you Maniacs, does a 155-pound showdown between "The Punk" and "Cowboy" make sense to you?