Gilbert Melendez set to rematch Strikeforce lightweight champion Josh Thompson on April 11

MMAmania.com has been able to confirm that former Strikeforce Lightweight Champion Gilbert Melendez (14-2) will rematch current Strikeforce 155-pound champ Josh Thompson (16-2) on the main card of the new-look Strikeforce debut show on April 11 in San Jose, California.

Thompson was originally in talks to face former EliteXC lightweight title holder KJ Noons, however “King” Karl opted to continue with his boxing career after scoring a decisive unanimous decision victory over Alejandro Bogarin in his return to the sweet science last November.

“El Nino” has not seen action since losing his title in a decisive unanimous decision to “The Punk” last June. The loss was only the second of his sparkling 16-fight career, which includes notable wins over Hiroyuki Takaya, Clay Guida, Tatsuya Kawajiri and others.

His only other defeat came via unanimous decision to Mitsuhiro Ishida at Yarennoka on New Years Eve 2007. Ishida has since signed with Strikeforce and made a successful debut for the promotion with a first round submission win over Justin Wilcox last September.

After capturing the title from Melendez, Thompson defeated Ashe Bowman (first round technical knockout win) at “Strikeforce at the Mansion II” in 2008.

“The Punk” is a worthy champion with an extremely versatile attack. Twelve of his 16 career wins have been by some form of stoppage (four technical knockouts and eight submissions). He holds notable career wins over Duane “Bang” Ludwig, “Razor” Rob McCullough, Hermes Franca, Nam Phan and Melendez.

The April 11 card will feature Nick Diaz and Frank Shamrock facing off in the evening’s main event at a catchweight of 179 pounds. Also sceduled to do battle is Scott Smith as he faces Benji Radach and Joe Riggs taking on former EliteXC Welterweight Champion Jake Shields.

Share and Enjoy: