Gilbert Melendez’s entry into the UFC is going to have to wait a little bit longer.
After rampant specualtion that Melendez will be fighting at least one more time in Strikeforce.
It was made official today by Strikeforce that Melendez (19-2 MMA, 9-1 SF) will be making his third title defense as he will defend his Strikeforce Lightweight Title against Jorge Masvidal (22-6 MMA, 4-0 SF) on December 17th at the Valley View Casino Center in San Diego.
Speculation had started after the UFC On Versus show about 10 days ago after UFC President Dana White had stated that he wanted Melendez in the UFC ASAP. But first, Melendez will make at least one more title defense in Strikeforce.
We haven’t seen Melendez in the cage he defeated Tatsuya Kawajiri in April at the Strikeforce show that also took place in San Diego.
Masvidal was last in the cage when he defeated KJ Noons in a dominating performance this past June which led to this title opportunity.
Fans are invited to a kickoff press conference for the event tomorrow. The fan and media event takes place at the Players Lounge Inside Valley View Casino Center and begins at 4 Eastern.
Along with Melendez and Masvidal, Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker, women’s featherweight champion Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos and Noons will also be attending tomorrow’s festivities.
For more updates on Strikeforce: Melendez vs Masvidal, stay tuned to MMASucka.com
