UFC contender Doo Ho Choi: I want a title shot before my mandatory military service

South Korea requires its male citizens aged 18 to 35 to undergo conscription or a two-year mandatory military service. This does not exempt anyone, even UFC fighters such as featherweight standout Doo Ho Choi.

The 26-year-old “Korean Superboy” says he has another year before putting his career on hold for conscription. But until then, he intends to further climb up the ladder and hopefully earn himself a shot at Max Holloway’s title.

“I feel that during that time I’m in the military, I’m still going to be working on my fighting career,” Choi said (via MMAjunkie). “So I’ll just become an even greater fighter, in my opinion.”

“I want to have a title shot.”

After his 2016 Fight of the Year performance against Cub Swanson, Choi is now slated to headline the UFC’s upcoming event in St. Louis, Missouri against Jeremy Stephens. He is aware of what “Lil Heathen” can bring to the table, and feels no pressure whatsoever.

“I knew he’s a scrappy fighter, as well, and (has) powerful punches,” Choi said. “And he has a good game plan. So I knew if we were to ever compete together – and then when I was presented this match, we would put on a good fight.”

“I don’t really feel stressed or pressured at all. I just enjoy what I do. And I’m just going to take one fight at a time. But then my goal is to get a title shot.”

UFC Fight Night 124 takes place on Sunday, January 14^th at the Scottrade Center.