2.) Wrestling:
This is an aspect of “Showtime’s” game that has been discussed many times before, and his supporters would tell you that he handled a top-level wrestler in Henderson just fine at UFC 164.
While that’s true, Pettis also struggled with Clay Guida (who’s now at featherweight) in his first UFC bout in 2011, and many still believe that Jeremy Stephens beat him in his next fight, which was officially ruled a split decision win for “Showtime” at UFC 136.
Gritty wrestlers have given Pettis fits in the past, and most think that if Melendez is to have any shot at beating him, he’s going to have to take him to the mat and hold him there.
While that’s far from an easy task, it’s no secret that “El Nino” shouldn’t last long standing and trading with a striker of Pettis’ caliber. If Melendez can use his solid ground game to control the larger Pettis on the ground, an upset victory could be within reach.
Is it unlikely? Perhaps, but it also isn’t like Pettis has proven to be invincible on the ground, either.
Most of his chances to destroy Melendez will be on the feet, so the outcome of this bout could largely rest on how well Pettis can defend takedowns.
