Gilbert Melendez on Fighting, Family, and the Future - Fight Back Ep. 61

Gilbert Melendez stopped by the Vegas podcast studio to talk about his early fighting career, training with the Diaz brothers, his fighting and coaching philosophy, the rivalries he had in his career, what it’s like transitioning from fighting to coaching, memorable fights, the importance of family, and much more.

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00:00 Introduction
01:13 Early Life and Wrestling Beginnings
02:09 College Wrestling and Transition to MMA
03:05 Building Friendships and Rivalries
18:57 First Fights and Rise in MMA
26:45 The Legacy of Great Fighters
27:15 Generational Greatness in Combat Sports
28:46 Training and Team Dynamics
34:00 Fighting in Japan: Culture Shock and Challenges
41:53 The Impact of the Pandemic on Training
50:59 Commentating and Podcasting Journey
52:15 Fighting in LFA and UFC
54:18 Memorable Fights and Rivalries
01:04:29 Future Plans and Reflections