In a recent interview with CBSSports.com, rising undefeated star Gilbert Melendez shared his thoughts on a variety of topics.

Melendez on fighting K-1 Hero's superstar JZ Calvancanti: After seeing JZ (Gesias Calvancanti) win that (153-pound) tournament I kind of want a piece of him, to tell you the truth. But that's only because I respect him. I wouldn't mind going out there, and I'm sure it would be a lot easier if I went out there to fight him in Japan, so it would definitely be something I'd like to do. But of course, I want to be respectful to Strikeforce and work around their schedule and make sure we're on the same page if that does happen.

Melendez on Dana White's well known interest in him and whether or not he would like to fight in the UFC :

The UFC is the premier show and they definitely have some guys who would challenge me, and I think the world would enjoy seeing me fight, and I think everyone gets to see you when you're in the UFC. Whether you're a good or bad fighter you're exposed to everyone when you're in the UFC. I think the main reason why I'd want to go to the UFC is because I'd want the world to see my skills. We've been in touch. I think a lot of people have been in contact with me. A lot of people showed a tremendous interest in me and I don't see why they wouldn't. I think I've earned it, and I've talked to them and they seemed very respectful and cool. They respect Strikeforce's deal with me so they'll just back off until I'm a free agent.

Catch Gilbert Melendez and the entire Strikeforce/Playboy event this Saturday for free, streaming live on Yahoo!Sports.com.