Brendan Powell was today handed the chance to get one over Monsignor, whom he was "jocked-off" in January.
He will be gunning for the Mark Pitman-trained hotpot in next Wednesday's Royal & SunAlliance Novices' Hurdle on board leading rival Male-Ana-Mou.
Monsignor, ridden to win the Weatherbys Champion Bumper last year by Powell but to be partnered by Norman Williamson at Cheltenham this term, is Coral's evens favourite for the race, with Male-Ana-Mou quoted at 10-1.
"Brendan came down to ride him this morning and it went absolutely fine," Male-Ana-Mou's trainer Jamie Poulton said from his base in Sussex.
"The horse is in tremendous form. I couldn't be happier with him. I have gone for Brendan as I think the horse needs experience not brashness and I think Brendan will be keen to beat Monsignor!"
When springing a 25-1 surprise in last month's National Spirit Hurdle at Fontwell Male-Ana-Mou was ridden by Andrew Thornton, who partners Celtic Native in the SunAlliance.
He is also entered in the Capel Cure Sharp Supreme Novices' Hurdle but Poulton reasoned: "I think the Supreme could be the better race this year as a lot of people will be frightened of Monsignor."
Big reputations do not faze Poulton, who added: "I bought the Weekender today and there was no mention of our horse even though he is third favourite, that's OK by me as it keeps the pressure off!"
