World champion Graeme Dott beat Ronnie O'Sullivan in the first semi-final of today's China Open.
Dott proved too hot for 'The Rocket' at the Beijing University Gymnasium as he powered to an impressive 6-2 win.
And following victory over the two-time China Open winner, the world number six now meets Barry Hawkins or young gun Jamie Cope in tomorrow's final.
'I played really well. It wasn't the best I've played this week, but I've played the same attacking game - and that's worked for me,' said Dott.
'To beat Ronnie O'Sullivan, the best in the game, 6-2 is a confidence boost for me. The form I'm showing here is better than when I won the World Championship last season.
'Winning the world title was good for my confidence. I feel I belong among the top players now.'
Scotland's Dott started the better of the players, both of whom had already guaranteed themselves £8,750 in prize money for progressing to the semi-finals.
But Dott was adamant winning the opening two frames had put O'Sullivan under pressure, forcing him to take on ambitious shots.
'He seemed to want to make a 147 every time he got to the table,' added the 29-year-old.
'Those two frames at the beginning were pivotal. I pinched both, which made a big difference. I can't remember missing much, it's nice to get to my first final after winning the World Championship.
'It should be a good final whoever I play because Barry, Jamie and I have been the best players here this week.'
Dott pocketed a 78 break to win the opening frame, before world number three O'Sullivan looked on course to level the match, but missed a pot on a black into a corner pocket while on 65, and his opponent mopped up to steal the frame.
O'Sullivan said: 'Graeme played very well. He's the world champion and played much better than me. I wasn't good enough today - it's as simple as that.
'It's a relief the match is over, I feel good now. I've more important things to look forward to when I get home, although I'm not going to be thinking about the World Championship.
'I baffle myself sometimes with the way I play, but the Chinese fans have been good all week - and I'm looking forward to coming back here next year.'
