During the post-fight press conference for UFC on Versus 6, promotion President Dana White was asked about the future of Strikeforce champ Gilbert ‘El Niño’ Melendez (14-5-1) and what his future might be with the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
White was quick to answer “ASAP” on bringing the top world lightweight to the Octagon.
“We do want to bring Gilbert Melendez over and we’re looking at it right now.”
Melendez has won five straight, all involving the Strikeforce 155 lb title, with his last win coming in April with a first round drubbing of Japanese fighter Tatsuya Kawajiri. ‘El Niño’ is expected to defend his title in December against Jorge Masvidal next, but with all of this talk, who knows.
Speaking of titles, the next question asked of White was whether Gilbert would get an immediate title shot or not.
“It’s a possibility. The thing is, that division is so stacked and usually timing has a lot to do with it. We’re going to bring Melendez over ASAP. We’re looking to bring him over now.”
Afterwards Melendez himself was asked to comment on White’s statement.
Speaking exclusively to MMAWeekly.com Saturday night, Melendez said he was still focused on Masvidal but would jump ship in a “heartbeat”.
“It’s exciting that the boss definitely wants me over to the UFC, because it’s definitely a good move for me,” Melendez said. “As far as I’m concerned (Jorge) Masvidal is the next guy on my list, and I’m focusing 100% on him so before I get too excited, I’m just focusing on tearing that guy up. But definitely my goal’s to be in the UFC so if we can get that there sooner than later, I’m all for it.”
“Basically, it would be a phone call from Dana saying drop everything you’re coming to the UFC.,” Melendez explained. “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.”
“Either way it’s inevitable. 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. It doesn’t really matter to me,” said Melendez.