Michael Dunlop was happy to answer the doubters with another Isle of Man TT win on Sunday as he closed in on his Uncle Joey's all-time record.
The Ballymoney rider proved a class apart once again with a dominant display in the RST Superbike race.
Dunlop finished eight seconds ahead of Peter Hickman, with Dean Harrison completing the podium in third.
Read more: Isle of Man TT recap of Sunday's RST Superbike race
Sunday's victory on the Hawk Racing Honda followed Saturday's success in the opening Supersport race, and sees Dunlop draw level with legendary rider John McGuinness on 23 TT wins.
It also sees the 34-year-old inch closer to Joey Dunlop's record of 26 Isle of Man TT triumphs.
Michael has another six chances to add to his tally this week, including rides in the Supersport, Superstock, Supertwin and Superbike classes.
"It was a good race. The last lap I just rolled off heavily. I saw a couple of yellow flags and eased up," Dunlop said.
"I just managed things from there. People said I couldn't ride a big bike anymore, but thanks to Stuart and Steve (Hicken) for believing in me and putting a fantastic package below me.
"The bike didn't miss a beat. It was tough, that's for sure. Beating Pete (Hickman) and Dean (Harrison) around here isn't easy, so I am delighted.
"The bike is good and I feel good. I am happy."
John McGuinness congratulated Dunlop with a warm embrace in the winner's enclosure after the Northern Irishman equalled his 23 TT wins.
Dunlop voiced his pride at reaching the milestone, and believes he answered some critics by claiming another win in the Superbike class.
"John has been a a great ambassador for motorcycling in general. And to be on the same as him is fantastic," Dunlop added.
"I have raced with John at the height of it, and now I am racing with Pete and Dean and it never gets an easier.
"I am just delighted for the boys. We are just a private team.
"The last couple of years people have doubted me over my big bike skills and haven't come near me. Steve and Stuart and my own sponsors have and I am just delighted to be back on the top step."
On approaching his legendary Uncle Joey's Isle of Man TT record, Dunlop played down the potential history-making feat of eclipsing 26 victories on the island.
The 34-year-old said he "never really worries" about the overall wins, adding: "Listen, there are six more races and I just want to keep trying to ride hard and enjoy it.
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