Forget UFC 166 "Fight of the Night," Gilbert Melendez vs. Diego Sanchez might have put on the "Fight of the Year" last night (Sat., Oct. 19, 2013) at Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.
Yes, even better than the instant Light Heavyweight classic that Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson turned in last month at UFC 165 (watch those video highlights here). In fact, ringside announcer Joe Rogan exclaimed that it might be his new favorite fight of all-time and he actually probably isn't exaggerating as usual.
The Lightweight war was just that good.
Melendez dominated most of the mixed martial arts (MMA) action early, opening up a cut over the left eye of Sanchez (see pic here) early in the first round. Sanchez, however, didn't let it slow him down, not even for a minute, as he charged forward consistently, eating three punches just to land one.
"Dream" was completely out of control, possessed, and Melendez was more than willing to return the favor. "El Nino," clearly the more accurate puncher, lit up Sanchez with precision shots -- even when it devolved into ridiculous Rock 'em, Sock 'em Robot exchanges (and there were several). He was clearly ahead on the scorecards heading into the final frame, but he didn't let that stop him from throwing caution into an F-5 tornado.
Sanchez dropped Melendez toward the end of the bout, and he admitted in his post-fight victory speech that he was out for a minute, but the former Strikeforce 155-pound champion was somehow able to pull through and accept his well-earned unanimous decision.
Watch the video highlights above and enjoy every amazing second. In fact, watch it 10 times ... it's just that good.
For more on the UFC 166 "Fight of the Night"-winning bout between Gilbert Melendez and Diego Sanchez click here and here.