Chael Sonnen says he’s coming for Ryan Bader, and feels an obligation to get in the octagon with him.

Chael Sonnen hopes to position himself for something more than just a title shot with a victory over Lyoto Machida. As they co-main event Bellator 222 Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York, the winner will become the No.1 contender for a shot against light heavyweight champion Ryan Bader.

“There’s still guys that I have a moral obligation to beat up,” said Sonnen. “There’s a lot of guys that need an ass whooping out there. Machida’s not one of them. Somehow I ended up with Machida, he’s not one of those guys. But there’s a lot of guys that deserve it, and they’re gonna get it.”

Sonnen (30-16) has been less vocal towards Machida (25-8) compared to past opponents, which has even come as a surprise to “The Dragon.” Although Sonnen respects him as a person, they’ll both have the light heavyweight title in their sights as they step into the octagon.

But there’s a lot more at stake for “The American Gangster” than the strap of gold, as he reveals his animosity towards the champion.

“Right at the top of my head, there’s a guy named Ryan; and another guy named Bader,” said Sonnen. “Top of my list. Grade A scumbag, and I’m coming for him. Bader and I have a past.”