ULTIMATE Fighting Championship hopeful Shane Mitchell has come too far and sacrificed too much to slip now.

The 26-year-old mixed martial artist, one of South Australia’s brightest talents inside the cage, knows he could be just one knockout away from the holy grail of combat sports and a UFC deal.

And Mitchell will defend his Diamondback Fighting Championship middleweight title Friday night at Adelaide Oval fully aware those with the power to change his life will be watching.

“I need to make sure it’s a good finish, I know I need to impress and I know I need this win,” Mitchell said of his main event matchup against Central Coast fighter Rick Alchin.

A clean knockout means Mitchell’s UFC dream could soon become a reality as the world’s biggest fight organisation drafts its fight card for a December 2 show at Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

But Alchin (15W-14L) is adamant the hometown hero will come up short.

“Shane will be happy to take one to give one and brawl,” Alchin said.

“I’m going to win … It’s unfortunate that I have to do that but he’s put himself in that position, I can take that (UFC) spot. It won’t be happening for him.

“Between us we’ve had 42 fights and (a few) decisions. You do the math and tell me what’s going to happen.”

Alchin, 28, represents Central Coast gyms Madness MMA, 888 Muay Thai and Gracie BJJ. It will be his first fight this year.

Mitchell (10W-3L) trains out of Cardio-Flex MMA at Para Hills and is running wild on a four-fight win streak.

“Compared to the last couple of guys I’ve fought (Alchin’s) not a big middleweight,” Mitchell said.

“(But) there’s pressure because of how much I want the UFC contract. I’ve worked my ass off for this. I’ve sacrificed everything. I’ve moved back home, I’ve stopped working.

“I know I’m an exciting fighter. I don’t bore people, I try knock people out and I go in there to hurt or to finish.

“I have no backup plan, I’m destined to make this happen.”