LAS VEGAS – When Terrance McKinney talks about the start to his UFC career, there’s a constant grin on his face. And, really, can you blame him?

McKinney, 27, was a short-notice replacement when he received the opportunity to make his promotional debut last June. Eight days removed from an LFA headlining win, McKinney wowed everybody when he knocked out Matt Frevola in just 7 seconds at UFC 263. Eight months later at UFC Fight Night 202, McKinney scored another first-round finish – this one a little bit longer – by choking out Fares Ziam after 2:11.

Just thinking about it makes him feel good.

“I’m so humble to be here and grateful to God for these two victories,” McKinney told reporters, including MMA Junkie, on Wednesday at UFC Fight Night 203 media day. “You couldn’t ask for a better performance. Took one strike in two fights. Couldn’t be more grateful.”

Just two weeks removed from his last win, McKinney (12-3 MMA, 2-0 UFC) already has another challenge in front of him Saturday against eight-year UFC veteran Drew Dober (23-11 MMA, 9-7 UFC) on the UFC Fight Night 203 main card at the UFC Apex. What’s more, McKinney also has a new contract.

McKinney said he was on the verge of calling the UFC about his next fight before the promotion reached out to him last week after Ricky Glenn was forced to withdraw because of an injury. McKinney made a request.

“Yeah, but let’s get a new contract. How about that?” he asked.

Once the UFC offered him a new deal, it was a no-brainer to compete. He never second-guessed it, even coming off a fight just days before.

“Not at all,” McKinney said. “God has a plan, and I’ve got an opportunity of a lifetime. I definitely have to seize this moment.”

He continued, “I can definitely see God moving, not only just in my life but in the UFC company. It’s been so amazing. I’m so grateful. This is never gonna get old. I’m forever gonna enjoy every moment of this.”

McKinney is on a roll, having won five fights in a row overall. Dober is sure to be hungry for a win after back-to-back losses to Islam Makhachev and Brad Riddell, and McKinney expects big things from their encounter.

“I’m excited to mix it up with him,” McKinney said. “I think we’re both explosive, powerful people, and it’s got Fight of the Night written all over it.”