FC Gym Stories: Gilbert Melendez Talks Diaz Brothers Sparring Sessions

FC Gym Stories: Gilbert Melendez Talks Diaz Brothers Sparring Sessions

Former Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez recalls sparring with Nate Diaz before his bout against Michael Johnson

Aug 5, 2016 by Duane Finley
FC Gym Stories: Gilbert Melendez Talks Diaz Brothers Sparring Sessions
Tony Reid

UFC lightweight Gilbert Melendez is one of the more accomplished and revered fighters in the sport. The former WEC and Strikeforce lightweight champion is a west coast MMA icon and before his career comes to a close, still seeks to add that elusive UFC gold belt to his already impressive fight resume.

The Cesar Gracie Jiu-Jitsu trained fighter is a founding father and member of one of the most infamous fight teams ever assembled. They boast some of the most skilled and most game fighters in the sport today. Melendez, alongside Jake Shields, Nick and Nate Diaz, Daniel Roberts and David Terrell round out the impressive squad.

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In our latest installment of Gym Stories, Melendez recalls a training session in Lodi, California just prior to Nate's, high stakes fight with Michael Johnson at UFC on FOX Dos Anjos vs. Cowboy 2. The incredible scrap earned Diaz and Johnson "Fight of the Night" honors and put the younger Diaz back on the winning track and propelled him to the heights he has reached today.

"There have been some really competitive days in the gym." Melendez said. "I remember recently when Nate (Diaz) was getting his hype video for his fight against Michael Johnson. Man, Nate was so ready for that one. I was his sparring partner and so was Nick. Nate was just on that day for the cameras. He put it on me. I won't say he put it on Nick, but he definitely put it on me pretty bad. He was hot that day. We were actually laughing on the side how ready he was. We were plotting on how to get him back later."

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So, was Gil not saying Nate put it on Nick because he didn't…or was he not saying it because he did?

"No way, bro." Melendez said. "I didn't say that at all. He did not. He did not put it on Nick. He had a good day, though. We have had so many great moments. I wish there were video cameras to catch some of the great scrambles and transition and competition we have. It's always a good time in there."