It looks like it’ll be a quick turn around for “El Niño.”

Just a few days after dropping a split decision to Eddie Alvarez at UFC 188, Gilbert Melendez will turn right back around and replace the injured Bobby Green against Al Iaquinta at UFC Fight Night 71 in July. FOX Sports Live reported the news Wednesday night.

Melendez (22-4), a former Strikeforce and WEC champion, is currently riding a career worst two-fight losing streak. Prior to losing to Alvarez, fans saw Melendez suffer a a second round submission loss to then champion Anthony Pettis in their title fight at UFC 181 in December. This loss marked the first time Melendez had been finished.

Iaquinta (11-3-1) is coming off a tight split decision win over Jorge Masvidal at UFC Fight Night 63 in April. Though controversial, this pushed the Long Island native’s win streak to four straight, which includes TKOs  longtime fan favorite Joe Lauzon and TUF 9 winner Ross Pearson.

UFC Fight Night 71 is set to take place on July 15 at the Valley View Casino Center in San Diego. A heavyweight contest between Frank Mir and Todd Duffee will serve as the main event.

About The Author

News Manager

José began his career as a mixed martial arts journalist while still enrolled at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Arizona State University. Since graduating in May 2013, he has attended dozens of high profile UFC fight cards as a credentialed member of the media, providing live cage side coverage through his articles and videos. His work has appeared on UFC.com, ArizonaSports.com and AZCentral. He is also currently one of the main contributors on Power MMA Show at Arizona Sports 98.7 FM, one of the first all MMA radio shows on a major radio station.