The future of Gilbert Melendez’s relationship with the UFC is looking bleak. After months of trying to ink a new deal with the sport’s premier league, it is a possibility that ‘El Nino’ may have to jump ship and call another promotion ‘home’.
Dana White elaborated on the complications of the negotiation process during his recent appearance on UFC Tonight. “I’m done. It’s not going well at this point. I like Gilbert Melendez very much, but I don’t like his management,” White told UFC Tonight. He continued, “If he wants to fight in the UFC, he better talk to Lorenzo quick.” Lorenzo Fertitta is a co-owner of the UFC.
Gilbert Melendez’s manager is Rodolphe Beaulieu, who happens to be the manager of former UFC Welterweight Champion Georges St. Pierre. “Being Georges St-Pierre’s best friend does not make you a good manager,” said White.
Gilbert Melendez last appeared in the octagon at UFC 166 when he defeated Diego Sanchez in one of the most exciting fights of 2013. After getting his hand raised in victory, Melendez had officially fulfilled his required number of fights on his Zuffa contract and was essentially a free agent. After months of trying to negotiate a new deal with Zuffa management, Dana White finally told Gilbert Melendez to start looking for a new home.
“He better start looking elsewhere.”
Do you think we will see Gil back in the octagon any time soon? Would you like to see him fight for Bellator or WSOF? Tweet us and share your thoughts in the comment section below!