Arnold Allen, a top English prospect, is taking on a true veteran of the sport in Gilbert Melendez at UFC 239, and he’d like this fight to be the last of Melendez’s career.
Las Vegas, NV – Heading into UFC 239, Arnold Allen is on the way up with a 5-0 record in the Octagon at 25-years-old. Gilbert Melendez is on the opposite side of the spectrum, as the 37-year-old is looking to snap a four-fight losing streak. With another win, Allen could very well retire a legend.
“If I beat him, that should be a full stop on his career. I hate it when I see veterans and legends fighting on longer than they should be. It’s around that time for him anyway.”
Looking forward, Allen has plenty of career left, and he’d like to be as notable as his opponent one day.
“I want to be one of those marquee names. I want to be a world champion most of all. I want to be known like that. I want people to be talking about my fights and saying they’re exciting and all that. But I don’t want to be fighting too long. I don’t think I’ll be fighting as long as he is.”
Fighting is an opportunity to do something out of the ordinary for a living. For Allen, it was his path to grow beyond his small-town beginnings.
“I’d probably be working down on the docks still. I’m from a little town and it’s kind of a dead-end town. I’ve seen the world doing this. I’ve been places I never thought I would go so it’s pretty cool.”
Allen is headlining the prelims on ESPN of arguably the best card of the year, giving him a huge opportunity to make a name for himself.
“It’s just more eyes on you. I haven’t got that yet. I like staying low key and flying under the radar. That’s going to be pretty tough to do after this fight I think. So we’re going to embrace it.”
As for his fight, Allen believes he has more than enough advantages over Melendez.
“I’ll just use my youth, my athleticism, my speed, my tools, all that. He’s a tough guy so I wouldn’t be surprised if I go to a decision with him. I’m going to looking for a finish as always. However it comes, I’ll be happy.”
