Melendez

By FCF Staff

As most expected would be the case, both Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Gilbert Melendez and women’s Featherweight Champion Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos defended their respective titles tonight in San Diego, California.

In a bout that took place almost entirely on its feet, Melendez outscored Jorge Masvidal with punches throughout five rounds to earn a unanimous decision victory. Although Masvidal never appeared to be in any serious trouble, and bruised the face of the champion with a stiff left jab, he was unable to match Melendez’s offensive output for 25 minutes.

“Cyborg” showed no ill effects of her year plus layoff, as the renowned fighter quickly put away challenger Hiroko Yamanaka in just 16 seconds. Shortly after the opening bell, Santos floored Yamanaka with a right hook, and followed up with a barrage of punches. Although Yamanaka attempted to work her way back to her feet, the ref had seen enough and jumped in to save her from further punishment.

Here are the official results from tonight’s Strikeforce event, which was hosted by San Diego’s Valley View Casino Center.

Gilbert Melendez def. Jorge Masvidal via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 49-46)

Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos def. Hiroko Yamanaka via TKO (punches) – R1, 0:16

Gegard Mousasi def. Ovince St. Preux via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

K.J. Noons def. Billy Evangelista via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Caros Fodor def. Justin Wilcox via KO (punches) – R1, 0:13

Roger Bowling def. Jerron Peoples via KO (punches) – R1, 0:42

Devin Cole def. Gabriel Salinas-Jones via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Eddie Mendez def. Fernando Gonzalez via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)

Herman Terrado def. Chris Brown via submission (armbar) – R3, 4:05