Why the UFC Should Sign Gilbert Melendez

One of the UFC's stated aims is to break into new markets, including the Phillipines, Germany, and Mexico, the latter of which is the topic of discussion here. UFC lightweight Roger Huerta, a highly marketable fighter of Mexican and Salvadoran descent, was made the face of the company's efforts to break into Hispanic markets, a questionable decision when Diego Sanchez would have been a far better choice.

However, in my opinion, Roger is done in the UFC. If there's one thing Dana White hates, it is talking money issues in public, and Roger's interview with FIGHT! magazine in which he complained about his contract HAD to piss Dana off something awful. And of course, it didn't help that Kenny Florian exposed Roger at UFC 87 as an average fighter with a padded record.

It's safe to say that Roger is screwed for the near-term, and the UFC will need a new face for Mexico. And if they don't choose Diego to be that face, Gilbert Melendez might be the perfect choice. (isn't it weird how much they look alike.

Melendez, a former Strikeforce Lightweight Champion, has a 14 and 2 record, and is unquestionably a much better fighter than Roger Huerta. And in a recent interview with MMAWeekly.com, Gilbert said the following about the UFC:

"There's a big chance. That's an organization I've always liked to be a part of and a lot of the guys in there I would want to fight. A lot of those guys motivate me. It's motivating to test yourself in front of the world. That's the most motivating thing about going to the UFC is that you really get to showcase yourself."

So no doubt about it, Gilbert would be a great addition to the UFC, as he's a proven lightweight contender and a perfect candidate to help penetrate Mexico.

Let's hope both sides come to their senses and make this deal happen.