• Strikeforce/UFC

Victorious Melendez calls out Frankie Edgar

ESPN staff
December 18, 2011
Gil Melendez was too good for Jorge Masvidal © Getty Images
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Strikeforce lightweight champion Gil Melendez saw off the greatest threat posed to him under the Strikeforce banner on Saturday, and then challenged Frankie Edgar to come and fight him.

Melendez cemented his status as one of the world's top 155-pounders, claiming a one-sided unanimous decision against the talented Jorge Masvidal. He is now without rival for his championship belt.

Earlier this week UFC president Dana White made it clear that Strikeforce fighters would not be cherry-picked for the UFC. Cross-over fights may happen, but White is reluctant to relieve Strikeforce of all its top talent.

As a result Edgar, if he gets past Ben Henderson on February 26, may find that he has to take on Melendez in his own backyard if he wants to prove he is the undisputed best lightweight in the world.

"I'm proud to be a part of Strikeforce," Melendez stated. "Showtime is amazing. But you know what? They need to bring some guys over here to challenge me.

"I'd like to challenge the champ, whoever it is in the UFC. Come to my hexagon and let's fight."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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