With a lot of the focus on UFC lightweight champ Frankie Edgar’s definitive victory over Gray Maynard in their back-to-back title rematch this past weekend, the question of who’s next for the 155 lb champion is certainly one that fans would like to have answered.
Someone else who would like to find that answer is Strikeforce lightweight champ Gilbert ‘El Niño’ Melendez (19-2), who has recently been in talks with the UFC about moving between the Zuffa promotions.
For Melendez, the answer to “who’s next?” is a simple one, it’s him.
Speaking as a guest on The MMA Hour on Monday, Gilbert discussed Edgar’s performance and his thoughts on why he should be the No. 1 contender.
“The UFC title is the best belt,” he said. “I want that belt and I want it as soon as possible.”
“I’m definitely impressed by Frankie. He’s an amazing fighter. He’s great,” Melendez said. “I honestly feel like I’m the No. 1 contender and I feel like I’m ready for the title shot now.”
Despite wanting a shot at the UFC belt, Melendez may have to defend his own title first.
With several Strikeforce champions having already made the move from Strikeforce to the UFC, Melendez is not in that situation just yet as he will likely face Jorge Masvidal on December 17.
‘El Niño’ had this to say about that fight.
“I’ve been focusing on Jorge Masvidal,” Melendez said. “He’s the first guy in line. I think he’s the No. 1 contender, as of now, in Strikeforce, and as of now I have to focus on that guy. He’s real tough. But it’s hard not to get excited when you hear all these rumors.”