Gilbert Melendez

Gilbert Melendez (born April 12, 1982) is an American mixed martial artist known for his time in the Lightweight division of the UFC. He has held titles as the Strikeforce Lightweight Champion and the WEC Lightweight Champion. Melendez has also competed in PRIDE FC, Shooto, and Rumble on the Rock. He earned the nickname 'El Niño' due to his aggressive fight style and dominance in the Shooto Lightweight division. Hailing from Santa Ana, California, Melendez, of Mexican descent, wrestled at Santa Ana High School. Introduced to MMA by his friend Jake Shields, Melendez began his training after college. He attended San Francisco State University, studying liberal arts, but didn't complete his degree.