Since Frankie Edgar’s dramatic win over Gray Maynard at UFC 136, there has been further speculation regarding the potential move of Strikeforce Lightweight champion, Gilbert Melendez.
Melendez has been vocal about switching to the UFC and UFC President Dana White is also remaining active in attempting to acquire his services. Of course, once the deal is done, Melendez said it only seems fitting to get an opportunity to challenge for the UFC lightweight title.
“The UFC title is the best belt,” Melendez said during an appearance on The MMA Hour. “I want that belt and I want it as soon as possible.”
Although his current crop of competition pales in comparison to the UFC’s talent, Melendez said he believes he has earned a chance to face Edgar. Melendez praised Edgar’s win last weekend and believes a future bout against him is inevitable, but “El Nino” still has an obligation to fight in Strikeforce and fulfill his contract.
Melendez spoke on his upcoming bout against Jorge Masvidal, who he will face in December.
“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 said.
Melendez’s resume is impressive as he holds notable wins over competitors like Clay Guida and Shinya Aoki. But despite all of his accomplishments, Melendez feels frustrated at the fact that he is not given the same recognition as other fighters simply because he competes in Strikeforce.
“A lot of people don’t recognize me as a great fighter because I haven’t beaten any UFC guys,” he said.
Melendez is one of the many talents the UFC has yet to acquire from Strikeforce. The idea of seeing the Strikeforce champion competing inside the Octagon seems very likely, considering UFC has already acquired Nick Diaz, Alistair Overeem, Jason “Mayhem” Miller, and most recently, Dan Henderson.
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