UFC Fight for the Troops 2 Results: Melvin Guillard Shocks Evan Dunham

It was a September 2009 loss to Nate Diaz that led Melvin Guillard to seek the instruction of Greg Jackson. Apparently, the structure and guidance that Jackson provided was all that Guillard needed to take his game to the next level.

Guillard has long been considered one of the most athletic lightweights in the UFC, but mental lapses and his lack of game planning have plagued him. Considering his past, it almost makes too much sense that Guillard's career would take a 180 degree turn when he joined forces with Jackson, one the of the great strategic minds in MMA.

Despite his ties with Jackson, Guillard remained an underdog heading into his fight with Evan Dunham at UFC Fight For The Troops 2. Dunham had proven to be a capable striker with excellent submissions, a combination that Guillard has had his biggest problems with in the past.

When the fight started, Guillard was getting the better of the early exchanges. Dunham was forced to take the fight to the ground. When he was successful in doing so, Guillard quickly escaped. Knowing he had Dunham hurt already, Guillard pressed the action, and big knee from the clinch marked the beginning of the end.

Pre-Jackson, there is a good chance that Guillard would have been discouraged when he was taken down by Dunham. The new Guillard kept his focus and quickly brought the fight back to a place where he would have the advantage.

After 33 professional fights, one would think that Guillard would have already learned everything he needed to know to reach his full potential. However, Guillard has transformed as a fighter in his four fights with Jackson's camp.

After the win, Guillard promised he would fight for the title in 2011 or 2012. There is a long line of contenders waiting for a shot at the UFC Lightweight Championship, but with his win over Dunham, Guillard has solidified himself as a legitimate threat to become a top contender.