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Monday, Apr 02, 2012

Gilbert Melendez vs. Josh Thomson III Booked For May 19th

Thomson hitting Melendez (right) (Photo via Esther Lin / Strikeforce)

By FCF Staff

Josh Thomson and Gilbert Melendez will battle for a third time, as  a rubber match between the two men has been booked for Strikeforce’s upcoming May 19th card.

Following his unanimous decision win over KJ Noons in March, many observers expected that Thomson would be granted another opportunity to face the current Strikeforce lightweight champ, who defeated Thomson by unanimous decision in December, 2009.

In their first meeting, which took place in June, 2008, it was Melendez who lost by unanimous decision.

The rubber match, which will take place at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, was first reported by MMA Junkie and sources close to the fight have confirmed the match-up with FCF.

Since losing by decision to Melendez in their most recent meeting, Thomson (19-4) has gone 3-1, with his only loss during that stretch coming against Tatsuya Kawajiri.

Melendez (20-2) has continued to impress since his aforementioned loss to Thomson, as the Cesar Gracie trained fighter has now won six straight fights.

Most recently in December, Melendez defended his lightweight belt by earning a UD victory over Jorge Masvidal.

Strikeforce has not made any official announcement regarding the fight.

In addition, sources have informed FCF that Mike Kyle will also compete on the upcoming event, however, the veteran’s opponent has reportedly not been confirmed.

The May 19th card, which will be broadcast on Showtime, will also feature the heavyweight grand-prix finale between Josh Barnett and Daniel Cormier.

 

 

posted by FCF Staff @ 5:46 pm
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