Jorge Masvidal handily defeated former Strikeforce title challenger, K.J. Noons, at Strikefore: Dallas this past weekend and now places himself in line to challenge Gilbert Melendez for his Strikeforce lightweight title according to mmajunkie.com.

Masvidal utilized his jab and counter-punching to great effect as he battered the aggressive Noons throughout the fight en route to a unanimous decision victory. Strikeforce CEO, Scott Coker, stated that Masvidal is now the front runner to compete for Melendez's title, although no official bout has been made.

"If it's Gilbert, if it's not - as long as I stay busy, I don't care who it is. If it was to be right now in the parking lot, I would kick his butt. I think I match up well with him; I match up well with anybody," Masvidal said on mmajunkie.com.

Match-up wise, Masvidal sees his skill set more than capable to compete with Melendez.

"I'm going to strike. I think one thing a lot of people don't have is good defense, and that's why I frustrate people and make openings. People get desperate, and I don't think Gilbert will get desperate. But I'll make openings...If I can punch you in the face, I can take you down. I've always known that since I started as a kid," Masvidal said on mmajunkie.com.

Masvidal is 22-6, winning his last two fights, defeating the likes of other MMA veterans in Yves Edwards and Joe Lauzon. The win over Noons is arguably the most significant.

It remains to be seen whether or not Masvidal will be granted his wish to fight for the Strikeforce lightweight title.