Gilbert Melendez, known as “El Niño” in the world of mixed martial arts, has left an indelible mark on the sport.
From his early days in Strikeforce to his stint in the UFC, Melendez has been a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. Let’s dive into the life and career of this MMA veteran.
Gilbert Melendez’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gilbert Melendez |
| Nickname | El Niño |
| Born | April 12, 1982 |
| Age | 43 |
| College | San Francisco State University |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’9″ (1.75 m) |
| Turned Pro | 2002 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Spouse | Keri Anne Taylor-Melendez |
| Instagram Profile | @gilbertmelendez |
Early Career
Gilbert Melendez’s journey in mixed martial arts began after college when his friend and fellow fighter Jake Shields introduced him to the sport.
Born in Santa Ana, California, Melendez had a background in wrestling from his high school days. He initially attended San Francisco State University with plans to become a teacher, but the allure of MMA changed his career trajectory.
Melendez’s natural athleticism and competitive spirit quickly translated to success in the cage, setting the stage for a remarkable professional career.
Professional Career
Melendez made his professional debut in 2002 and quickly made a name for himself in various promotions. He found early success in the World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC), where he became the lightweight champion.
Melendez’s striking prowess and grappling skills made him one of the most feared lightweights outside the UFC. In 2013, Melendez made his long-awaited UFC debut, immediately challenging for the lightweight title against Benson Henderson.
Although he lost a close split decision, Melendez proved he could compete with the best in the world’s top promotion. He went on to have several memorable fights in the UFC, including a Fight of the Night performance against Diego Sanchez.
Wife
Gilbert Melendez is married to Keri Anne Taylor-Melendez, who is also a professional fighter. The couple has been together for many years and has a daughter named Leylah Valentina Melendez.
Keri Anne has competed in both kickboxing and MMA, making them a true fighting family.
Gilbert Melendez’s Net Worth Details
Gilbert Melendez’s net worth is estimated to be $500,000 as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| UFC 215 | Jeremy Stephens | $200,000 |
| UFC 188 | Eddie Alvarez | $200,000 |
| UFC 181 | Anthony Pettis | $200,000 |
| UFC on Fox 7 | Benson Henderson | $175,000 |
| Strikeforce: Melendez vs. Masvidal | Jorge Masvidal | $150,000 |
Endorsements
Throughout his career, Gilbert Melendez has had several endorsement deals, including:
- Reebok (during UFC’s partnership with the brand)
- Fairtex (gear sponsor)
- Metal Mulisha (clothing sponsor)
- Venum (current UFC apparel partner)
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Benson Henderson | Loss (Split Decision) | UFC on Fox 7 |
| Diego Sanchez | Win (Unanimous Decision) | UFC 166 |
| Anthony Pettis | Loss (Submission) | UFC 181 |
| Eddie Alvarez | Loss (Split Decision) | UFC 188 |
| Edson Barboza | Loss (Unanimous Decision) | UFC on Fox 20 |
| Jeremy Stephens | Loss (Unanimous Decision) | UFC 215 |
| Arnold Allen | Loss (Unanimous Decision) | UFC 239 |
FAQs
1. What is Gilbert Melendez’s most famous fight?
Gilbert Melendez’s most famous fight is widely considered to be his bout against Diego Sanchez at UFC 166 in 2013. This thrilling back-and-forth battle won Fight of the Night honors and is often cited as one of the greatest fights in UFC history.
2. How many times did Gilbert Melendez win the Strikeforce Lightweight Championship?
Gilbert Melendez won the Strikeforce Lightweight Championship twice. He first captured the title in 2006 and regained it in 2009, defending it multiple times before the promotion was acquired by the UFC.
3. Did Gilbert Melendez ever win a UFC title?
No, Gilbert Melendez never won a UFC title. He challenged for the UFC Lightweight Championship in his promotional debut against Benson Henderson but lost a close split decision.
4. What is Gilbert Melendez’s background in martial arts?
Gilbert Melendez has a background in wrestling from his high school days. He later transitioned to MMA, developing a well-rounded skill set that includes striking, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
5. How has Gilbert Melendez contributed to MMA outside of fighting?
Outside of fighting, Gilbert Melendez has contributed to MMA as a gym owner, coach, and broadcaster. He owns the El Niño Training Center in San Francisco and has worked as an analyst and commentator for various MMA promotions and shows.
6. What is Gilbert Melendez’s connection to the Diaz brothers?
Gilbert Melendez is a long-time training partner and friend of Nick and Nate Diaz. They were all part of the “Skrap Pack,” a group of fighters who trained together in Northern California.
7. Has Gilbert Melendez competed in any other combat sports besides MMA?
While Gilbert Melendez is primarily known for his MMA career, he has also competed in submission grappling matches. However, he has not professionally competed in other combat sports like boxing or kickboxing.
8. What was Gilbert Melendez’s record in Strikeforce?
In Strikeforce, Gilbert Melendez compiled an impressive record of 11-1, with his only loss coming to Josh Thomson in their first encounter. He later avenged this loss in two subsequent rematches.
9. When did Gilbert Melendez retire from MMA?
Melendez retired from professional MMA after his last fight on July 6, 2019, against Arnold Allen at UFC 239.
10. Has Gilbert Melendez received any bans or controversies during his career?
Yes, in 2015, he tested positive for banned substances after his fight against Eddie Alvarez at UFC 188 and received a one-year suspension
