UFC
Anthony Pettis says he has to "shut up a lot of people" at UFC 181, plans to finish Gilbert Melendez in the first round
Oct 1, 2014 - 2:50:23 PM Anthony Pettis says he has to "shut up a lot of people" at UFC 181, plans to finish Gilbert Melendez in the first round

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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

"The fans can expect me finishing this fight in the first round. I've been out for a year and I'm excited to be back. I'm healthy, ready to fight and, unfortunately, Melendez will be my first opponent after my return. I say unfortunately because I'm sure that I won't need more than one round. I have to shut up a lot of people and I have others to face."

-UFC Lightweight Champ Anthony Pettis talks to Combate in Brazil about his UFC 181 fight with Gilbert Melendez, as well as coming back from injury (transcribed by Fernando Arbex at BloodyElbow.com).

Penick's Analysis: Pettis has been fairly consistent in finishing fights over the years, and if there's anyone on the roster who can stop Melendez in the first round, it just might be the Champ. That's something a lot easier said than done, though, as Melendez is a damn fine fighter in his own right who is consistently competitive himself. This is a great title fight for the 155 lb. division in December, and if Pettis accomplishes this goal, it will go a long way toward erasing the last year of criticism he's faced.