Strikeforce 'Evolution' Preview

Strikeforce Lightweight Championship
Josh Thomson vs. Gilbert Melendez

The Breakdown: The long-awaited rematch between Thomson, the reigning Strikeforce lightweight champion, and Melendez, the interim titleholder, finally comes to fruition. At stake are the undisputed dominance of the division and the final say in this heated rivalry. With Thomson already up 1-0, Melendez comes into this fight hoping to prove he can figure out his would-be quarry.

Melendez’s failure in the first bout can be traced to Thomson’s takedown defense and superior striking, both of which remain the main obstacles in the rematch. While Melendez has sharpened his wrestling by stringing together techniques instead of merely relying on his shot, striking remains a skill with which he will struggle against Thomson.

Despite showing improved fundamentals in his bout with Mitsuhiro Ishida, Melendez still lacks the versatility of Thomson, who can utilize leg kicks and knees, in addition to his sharp jab-cross combination. Unless Melendez can finish the takedowns that eluded him in the first bout, he may be walking headlong into another five-round date with Thomson’s jab.

The X-Factor: With more than a year on the shelf because of injuries, Thomson enters this fight with plenty of cage rust to shake off. Making matters worse, Melendez’s relentless pace will force Thomson to work right out of the gate.

A key part of Thomson’s win the first time was his ability to stifle Melendez with footwork and the jab, but that requires a certain rhythm that may elude him if time away has adversely affected him. If Thomson cannot get into a groove early, he may get stopped before he has a chance to recover.

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The Bottom Line: Expect another blistering five-round fight that once again favors Thomson, thanks to his takedown defense and piston jab. Do not expect a shutout, but Melendez will not score anywhere near enough takedowns to make up for Thomson’s dominance on the feet.