UFC’s John Dodson promises new outcome in Demetrious Johnson rematch

The Ultimate Fighting Championship lists flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson as its third-best pound-for-pound fighter, but in a division that Johnson has dominated with seven consecutive title wins, an injection of personality is needed.

So in walks John Dodson (18-6), who fought Johnson (21-2-1) to a competitive loss by unanimous decision in January 2013, and returns on a three-fight win streak, vowing to take the belt in the Sept. 5 rematch at MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Tickets go on sale Friday.

“I’m real excited because I can go beat up a guy I already beat up once,� Dodson told The Times on Wednesday. “I keep looking at the scorecards and everyone keeps telling me I did not win. What the [heck] is wrong with people? That’s not going to be an issue with this fight.�

Albuquerque’s Dodson claims the hiring of a strength and conditioning coach to supplement the training he receives from famed mixed martial arts trainer Greg Jackson will allow help him.

“Anyone who doesn’t think something great can come out of New Mexico ... watch ‘Breaking Bad,’ � Dodson cracked.

“I’m going to make sure I can knock [Johnson] out in the first round and the fifth round, if necessary. I possess more knockout power than him and more flexibility. Now I have the cardio to keep up.

“I can show the world the true John Dodson. I’ve been too timid, soft-spoken. I’ve had glitches in my killer instinct. No more. Now I have someone in front of me who I’ve never wanted to beat up more.�

Dodson said Johnson’s ownership of the belt and comment that Dodson did not hurt him despite knocking him down in the first fight provides motivation.

“He was on his knees as if he was praying to God,� Dodson said. “Now I’m going to rip the soul from his body.

“He has an unrelenting [ability] to continue pushing forward and attack ... but Demetrious Johnson has a weak chin. He’s going to get put to sleep by me.�

Someone’s paying attention to the boastful strategy of featherweight Conor McGregor.

As the talkative Irishman did in stopping Chad Mendes earlier this month for an interim title, Dodson has his opportunity.

He likened his pursuit to that of former welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre, who came back from his first title shot, a loss to Matt Hughes, to beat him in the 2006 rematch.

“I toned myself down last time,� Dodson said. “Now the timing is right. I’ve matured as a fighter.�

He added, “We need someone in this division to fight -- and talk. Fans feel rewarded by knowing the person.�

Follow Lance Pugmire on Twitter @latimespugmire