Stephens vs. Melendez

This is the official discussion thread for Stephens vs. Melendez. Let's see what you've got.

Melendez to 145 lbs. We shall see.

Late career weight class changes don't usually go great. I've been a big fan of Melendez since his Pride days. I think he should beat Stephens, but won't be surprised if he doesn't. 

As you age you usually lose speed and reflexes first. So naturally it makes sense to go down in weight and face guys who are faster with better reaction times.

Either way this fight goes it should be great. 2 very fan friendly fighters. I smell FOTN and I'm looking forward to this one!

I predict a Stephens DEC win. If this was at 155, I may feel differently. Regardless; great fight. Really look forward to this one. 

Both really need a win.

Because it had to be said.

First Thought: Stevens gets another notch in his belt.

I hope Melendez gets the win.

i dont really like either of these guys, but i think as long as gil has a decent cut he should take it. Overall hes just simply better than stephens i think.

Gilbert is a true professional,I don't think he'll have a bad enough cut to have a large effect on his performance but it'll be a tough one.At the same height Stephens is arguably the bigger guy.

Stephens is obviously a good fighter but I think he's overrated with his 12-13 UFC record and his power is super overrated cause he swings like an animal and has a few memorable KO's.He only has 5 Tko/Ko's in 25 UFC fights 2 in almost 7 years and a few are comeback wins over the super chinny Bermudez & Marcus Davis.Of course he has fought good competition but he's not this killer some fans and most commentators say he is imo.

I don't think Stephens can (will I should say) KO Melendez with punches,maybe a knee off a Gil shot.It'll be a tough fight but I think Gil gets a clear win,maybe even in a firefight too but obviously mixing/threatening td's and being the better overall mma fighter is the obvious way to go.Just like everyone else i'm wrong all the time but I think Melendez should win,i'll be a little surprised if he doesn't.

As long as Giblert doesn't have much struggle making weight he should win because he is better everywhere.

doubting that gil is gonna want to stand and trade so i'm expect him to implement a boring strikeforce era gameplan. i'm gonna go with stephens just because he's used to the weight cut, but wouldn't even consider betting on this one.

Even if Gilbert has an easy cut, this is his first at 145 so I think Jeremy sleeps him inside 1 round.

Stephens looked bad at the early weigh in. I still think he gets the stoppage though. Just a feeling. I expect a grapple heavy game plan from Giblert.

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