Jimi Manuwa has been angling to get a title opportunity and it looks like the platform for that next step is there for the taking. And there is more than one possibility that dream can come true.

The UFC announced on Wednesday the British knockout artist will face Volkan Oezdemir at UFC 214 on July 29 in Anaheim, which just so happens to be the same card set to feature the highly anticipated rematch between current champion Daniel Cormier and former titleholder Jon Jones. Should Manuwa defeat Oezdemir it would put him in line for the next shot, but competing on the same card also means "Posterboy" will be ready and on standby should any misfortune fall upon one of the main event fighters.

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This is the best scenario Manuwa could hope for after moving into a heavier spotlight following back-to-back devastations of Ovince Saint Preux and Corey Anderson. You throw in some heated back and forth with Cormier and a potential contender was born. The only thing left to do is cement that status and his bout with Oezdemir at UFC 214 represents that exact opportunity.

That said, Manuwa has no easy task in facing the Swiss light heavyweight.

The 27-year-old has been impressive in his two showings inside the Octagon, with his most prominent victory coming in a lightning quick victory over Misha Cirkunov last weekend in Stockholm. By landing a fight with veteran slugger, Oezdemir has a real opportunity to carve out his place as a major player in the light heavyweight fold.