MMA Quick Quote: El Nino looking for redemption against The Punk on April 11

by Jesse Holland on Mar 31, 2009 7:18 PM EDT

"I expect the same Josh (Thomson). Sticking and moving, sticking and moving, and trying to stay light on his feet. He’ll fight with a lot more tricks, a lot more strategy. Maybe go low, and then high and fight at a lot more angles. Josh is a great. He’s a pioneer in the sport and I expect everything from him. He’s good everywhere. He had great takedowns last time as well and I expect a good fight from him ... I feel great. I feel like 25 minutes is like a normal thing for me. It’s a jog. It’s always hard to feel completely prepared because I always feel like there isn’t enough time in the week to prepare and do everything I need. I feel confident that I’m going to do a hell of a lot better than my last performance out there. I’m just looking forward to performing a lot better than last time."

-- Top-ranked lightweight and former Strikeforce 155-pound champion Gilbert Melendez talks about his preparation for his rematch with Josh Thomson during an open media workout for the upcoming Strikeforce event on April 11. "El Nino" has not seen action since losing his title in a decisive unanimous decision to "The Punk" last June. The loss was only the second of his sparkling 16-fight career, which includes notable wins over Hiroyuki Takaya, Clay Guida, Tatsuya Kawajiri and others.

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This one’s just too close to call for me. Can’t wait though.

by Jeremyjackson on Mar 31, 2009 7:20 PM EDT reply actions

I think that is these 2 fight each other in a best of seven series…It would go to game seven. this fight can go either way, but I find it hard to believe that either fighter can defeat the other 2 times in a row. Sorry Josh, I gotta roll with El Nino this time!

by john on Mar 31, 2009 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions

I get the feeling from all his interviews that he’s gonna stand with josh and forgo the wrestling game. Or at least he’s concentrating a lot more on standup.

by NameNotRequired on Mar 31, 2009 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions

Did either of you guys see the first fight? Josh dominated him from start to finish! I dont know what makes you guys think it will be close. Maybe more competitive, but not close. Still Josh takes a UD.

by JV on Mar 31, 2009 8:08 PM EDT up reply actions

I saw it and I thought Melendez didn’t look himself. I think Gilbert is very hungry and I think these guys’ styles match up well against each other. I predict a very close fight. Thompson is quicker standing up but Gilbert is a beast.

by Jeremyjackson on Mar 31, 2009 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions