It’s difficult for any fighter, no matter how talented they are, to reach the top of the UFC. Even if a fighter’s capable, they may not be able to secure the fights they need to get there.Right now, there are a number of fighters in the UFC who seem to have the potential to reach the top of the mountain, but if they’re to do this, they need a big step up in competition in their next fight. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostWhether these fighters can get past that next step up is another thing entirely, but it’s definitely fair to say that they’ve more than earned the opportunity to go for it.Here are five current UFC fighters who need a step up the ladder in their next trip to the octagon.#5. Jailton Almeida – UFC light heavyweight contenderJailton Almeida looks like one of the most dangerous prospects in the light-heavyweight divisionBrazilian prospect Jailton Almeida might only be two fights into his career with the UFC, but from what we’ve seen of him thus far, he’s definitely got the tools to reach the top of the mountain, and needs a step up the next time he fights.‘Malhadinho’ debuted in the octagon in February and easily dispatched Danilo Marques via TKO in a light heavyweight bout, but his second fight – which took place this past weekend – saw him step up to heavyweight and dominate Parker Porter en route to a first-round submission win.UFC Europe@UFCEurope Jailton Almeida STILL all the rage!A quick excursion to heavyweight proves to be successful for the #DWCS alum! #UFCVegas55409🇧🇷 Jailton Almeida STILL all the rage!A quick excursion to heavyweight proves to be successful for the #DWCS alum! #UFCVegas55 https://t.co/kL22x6wmmsInterestingly enough, the suggestion has been that Almeida was forced to fight Porter at heavyweight as he couldn’t find an opponent at 205lbs, which gives some kind of indication how dangerous he’s considered by his fellow fighters.So where does the Brazilian go from here? Prior to his fight with Porter, he suggested that he’s capable of competing at both 205lbs and as a heavyweight, and that the path to the title was perhaps “easier” in the latter weight class.However, given that he came into that fight at just 227lbs, there’s probably an argument for him to go back down to light heavyweight for his next visit to the octagon.Either way, ‘Malhadinho’ appears to be highly skilled both standing and on the ground. He’s in phenomenal shape and has yet to show any weaknesses. He’s got everything he needs to break into the rankings soon – and so it’s time to give him a step up.