Sherdog’s Top 10: Lightweights of All-Time

7. Gilbert Melendez

Melendez started his career 21-2 -- his losses to Josh Thomson and Mitsuhiro Ishida were later avenged -- and parlayed his success into two Strikeforce title reigns. Few at 155 pounds have enjoyed such consistent excellence. Wins over Thomson (twice), Tatsuya Kawajiri (twice), Shinya Aoki, Hiroyuki Takaya, Rumina Sato, Clay Guida and Jorge Masvidal marked Melendez’s peak years. The Cesar Gracie-trained Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt arrived in the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 2013 and has compiled a disappointing 1-3 mark since, a decision over Diego Sanchez in an unforgettable three-round war the lone victory. Melendez failed in two tries to capture the lightweight crown inside the Octagon, dropping a contentious split decision to Benson Henderson at UFC on Fox 7 before succumbing to an Anthony Pettis guillotine choke at UFC 181. While a current three-fight losing streak and advancing age -- the Santa Ana, California, native turns 35 in April -- have clouded his future, his place as one of MMA’s most accomplished lightweights remains secure.

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