Gil Melendez heading to the UFC ASAP, debut title shot possible
it appears Gil Melendez’ reign as Strikeforce lightweight champion, and the December title defense with top contender Jorge Masvidal, may…
it appears Gil Melendez’ reign as Strikeforce lightweight champion, and the December title defense with top contender Jorge Masvidal, may have come to an abrupt end.
Melendez, the No. 1 ranked lightweight in the world, was informed Saturday night that UFC President Dana White had announced he was headed to the UFC sooner rather than later, and they wanted him in the UFC right now.
As to who Melendez might face in his UFC debut, most would point to the winner of the UFC 136 main event between Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard as the most likely candidate. But White cautioned that It’s a possibility. The thing is, that division is so stacked. And usually timing has a lot to do with (who gets the next shot).
It’s exciting that the boss definitely wants me over to the UFC, because it’s definitely a good move for me, Melendez said. I’d be there in a heartbeat. Money doesn’t really mean nothing at this point, my money’s good, I’m happy with my money, if he told me to come fight for the same price, I would do it.
I’m coming for all the 55lbers and I really want to prove I’m No. 1. It would be nice to get a title shot, but if I need to come through it and work my way up, I’m more than willing. Part of being No. 1 is beating everyone, every match-up, I think I can beat every style out there.”