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.Support the podcast by purchasing merch at http://fightbackpodcast.com Save 10% by using promo code FIGHTBACK10http://MerakiMedicinal.com/fightback is the best source for methylene blue, and purchases help us fund our free speech platform. Save 15% with our link, or use code FIGHTBACK. 00:00 Introduction01:13 Early Life and Wrestling Beginnings02:09 College Wrestling and Transition to MMA03:05 Building Friendships and Rivalries18:57 First Fights and Rise in MMA26:45 The Legacy of Great Fighters27:15 Generational Greatness in Combat Sports28:46 Training and Team Dynamics34:00 Fighting in Japan: Culture Shock and Challenges41:53 The Impact of the Pandemic on Training50:59 Commentating and Podcasting Journey52:15 Fighting in LFA and UFC54:18 Memorable Fights and Rivalries01:04:29 Future Plans and Reflections