Un De Sceaux is all set for a mouthwatering clash with France's new superstar Blue Dragon in Sunday's French Champion Hurdle at Auteuil as the pair were among 12 horses remaining at the latest forfeit stage.
Having proved his stamina over an extended two and a half miles last month in the Prix La Barka, Willie Mullins' Un De Sceaux now steps up another half-mile for the showpiece race, won 12 months ago by David Pipe's Un Temps Pour Tout.
While that was his first attempt over anything much further than two miles, Un De Sceaux certainly did not seem to be slowing down under Ruby Walsh and connections are inclined to believe the display was more down to the fact he had the very soft ground he so adores.
Colm O'Connell, who owns Un De Sceaux with his father Edward, said: "I hope this sun we've been having stays away from Auteuil, but I'd be very surprised if the ground wasn't soft given the rain they've had in France.
"Barring a situation like we had before the Tingle Creek, we're definitely running and it looks like we're taking on Blue Dragon.
"He's looked a serious horse so far and the one to beat, but we're looking at it that we can't really lose. If he doesn't stay we can keep him to races over two miles and two and a half, if he does stay he can then go anywhere.
"I genuinely don't think the trip is an issue for him. Ruby keeps telling us he is bred for three miles - I honestly think it's all about the ground.
"The only races he has been beaten in (when he hasn't fallen) are when the ground has not been soft. He's near enough unbeatable when it's soft."
Mullins may also run Thousand Stars, twice a winner of the race, and the mare Whiteout.
Paul Nicholls has Ptit Zig and Silsol engaged, with Gary Moore's Ubak another possibility.
There is a further forfeit stage on Thursday with the final field confirmed on Friday.
