Throughout most of his career, Ford has shown a lot of wrinkles in his game, boxing effectively for the most part, but electing to fight on the inside and go for broke when needed.

Yet, when the world discusses the best 130-pound fighters, the likes of WBO/IBF champion Emanuel Navarrete and WBC titleholder O’Shaquie Foster normally get the bulk of attention. Ford wouldn’t say he’s jealous of those two, but it does get under his skin when someone believes he's inferior to them.

Ford could go on about why he should be viewed as the best of the best. But instead of talking, he simply wants to get in the ring and show everyone what he’s got.

“I know I can beat those guys,” Ford told The Ring. “I just want the opportunity to show that. Like, I’m not saying those guys are bad fighters. They both can really fight, but I just know who I am and the level that I’m on.”

Ford (18-1-1, 8 KOs) could well land one of those fights next. While Navarrete (40-2-1, 33 KOs, 1 NC) was busy scoring a stoppage win over Eduardo Nunez last month to unify the division, Ford was jawing ringside with Foster.

Soon after, Ford informed The Ring that his promoter, Matchroom Boxing, offered Foster (24-3, 12 KOs) the chance to take him on in April. The Ring’s No. 2 ranked 130-pounder grabbed a lopsided points win over Stephen Fulton in December.

Whether a Foster-Ford fight gets made next is a separate conversation, but April doesn't appear a realistic timeline, even if that bout appears far more feasible than one with Navarrete.

The Ring’s No. 1 ranked junior lightweight was recently ordered by the WBO to face Charly Suarez.

Their first fight, which took place last May, ended in a technical decision for Navarrete after he sustained a cut above his left eye due to an accidental headbutt. After further review, however, it was deemed a no-contest once the California State Athletic Commission realized the blow was actually the result of a punch from Suarez.

Ford, The Ring's No. 6-ranked contender, has repeatedly said that he’s levels above both fighters. However, he's aware Navarrete and Foster sit top of the junior lightweight food chain for a reason.

“Foster is a good fighter,” Ford continued. “I don’t care for him, but he’s a good fighter and Navarrete is too. He’s awkward but has good skills and decent power. I know how to deal with both of those styles. People think highly of them and they should but if I get the chance to share the ring with them, I’ll show the world exactly who I am.”