Gilbert Melendez not headed to UFC just yet, will defend Strikeforce Lightweight Title this November or December [UPDATED]

By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Gilbert Melendez won't be making a jump to the UFC just yet, as multiple published reports state that he'll defend his belt this fall/winter at a yet-to-be determined date and location against Jorge Masvidal.

Melendez, considered by most to be in the top two or three in the world at lightweight, holds a 19-2 career record, having avenged both losses on his record with dominant victories in rematches. Currently riding a five fight win streak, Melendez was last seen blasting through Tatsuya Kawajiri in just over three minutes at Strikeforce "Diaz vs. Daley" in April.

Masvidal earned his way to a title shot in Strikeforce with two very impressive performances inside the Strikeforce cage in 2011. In his debut fight in March, Masvidal put on a one-sided performance against Billy Evangelista, and followed that up with a career-best fight against K.J. Noons in June.

According to reports, the fight is expected to take place in November or December, though an exact date and location for the fight have not yet been determined.

Penick's Analysis: While I'd absolutely love to see Melendez in the UFC, with the title picture already muddied up with the UFC's roster, it's not the end of the world for him to take on someone in Strikeforce right now. This is a very good lightweight fight from Strikeforce's standards, and Masvidal has earned a chance to show what he can do against a top fighter. If Melendez defends the belt yet again, the call will be massive to see him move over to the UFC, but that's something that can be dealt with down the line.

UPDATE: ESPN reports quotes from Melendez and his trainer Cesar Gracie saying the Masvidal fight is not yet signed, but it is the most likely opponent.

"First of all, there is no contract signed," said Melendez "But it's not rocket science -- it's the process of elimination. Right now [Masvidal] seems like the No. 1 contender. I'd say JZ [Gesias] Cavalcante is No. 2; maybe [Justin] Wilcox is No. 3."

"That's what we're assuming," added Gracie. "But nothing is set in stone, no contract has been given. [Masvidal] has been thrown out there. But again it hasn't been set in stone. When Gilbert Melendez signs a deal, he will let everyone know."

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