When we talk about explosive strikers in the UFC featherweight division, one name that always sparks excitement is Melsik Baghdasaryan. Known by his fitting nickname, “The Gun,” this Armenian powerhouse has built a reputation for having some of the fastest hands and deadliest kicks in the sport. But he isn’t just an MMA fighter. He is a multi-talented athlete who has competed at a high level in kickboxing and professional boxing as well.
Melsik’s journey is a classic tale of hard work and moving across the world to chase a dream. Born in Yerevan, Armenia, he eventually found his way to the famous Glendale Fighting Club in California. This is the same gym that coached legends, and it’s where Melsik sharpened his skills into the sharp-shooting style we see today. Whether he is landing a head kick or a clinical left hook, his “all-action” approach makes every one of his fights a “must-watch” event for combat sports fans.
Melsik Baghdasaryan Biography Table
To get a quick look at the man behind the gloves, here is a detailed breakdown of his vitals and professional background.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Melsik Baghdasaryan |
| Nickname | The Gun |
| Date of Birth | January 28, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Yerevan, Armenia |
| Fighting Out Of | Glendale, California |
| Height | 5′ 9″ (175 cm) |
| Weight Class | Featherweight (145 lbs) |
| Reach | 70 inches |
| Stance | Southpaw |
| Gym | Glendale Fighting Club |
| MMA Record | 8-3-0 |
Early Life and Martial Arts Roots
The story of Melsik Baghdasaryan began long before he ever stepped into a UFC Octagon. He started his martial arts training at the incredibly young age of six. Like many greats, his foundation was in Karate. This early start helped him develop the balance and timing that would later make him a champion kickboxer.
As he grew older, he moved into Muay Thai and kickboxing. He wasn’t just a local competitor; he was a world-class talent. Before focusing on MMA, Melsik was a standout in the Wu Lin Feng (WLF) promotion in China and even challenged for a K-1 title in Japan. These high-pressure environments taught him how to handle the bright lights and tough opponents, which served him well when he finally decided to transition into the world of mixed martial arts.
The Transition to Professional Boxing
Interestingly, Melsik Baghdasaryan didn’t jump straight from kickboxing to the UFC. In 2015, he decided to test his hands in the world of professional boxing. Many strikers struggle when you take away their kicks, but Melsik excelled. He maintained an undefeated boxing record of 3-0, proving that his punching power was just as dangerous as his “Gun” moniker suggested.
His boxing experience is very clear in his MMA fights. He doesn’t just swing wildly; he uses technical head movement and precise combinations. Fighting as a southpaw, he creates difficult angles for his opponents. This “boxing-first” approach allows him to set up his devastating kicks, making him a dual threat that is very hard to prepare for in a short training camp.
Entering the World of MMA
Melsik’s MMA career actually had a rocky start. He lost his professional debut in 2014 by submission. Instead of rushing back, he took a long break to focus on other sports and improve his grappling. When he returned to the cage in 2019, he looked like a completely different animal. He went on a tear, winning four fights in a row by knockout—all in the first round!
His dominance on the regional circuit caught the eye of the UFC scouts. He was invited to compete on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2020. While he didn’t get a knockout that night, he showed his “Expertise” by dominating Dennis Buzukja over three rounds. This performance proved that he could maintain a high pace for 15 minutes, not just find a quick finish.
Making a Splash in the UFC
The official UFC debut of Melsik Baghdasaryan was nothing short of spectacular. In July 2021, he faced Collin Anglin and delivered a highlight-reel head kick knockout in the second round. This win immediately put the featherweight division on notice and earned him a “Performance of the Night” bonus. It was the perfect introduction to the global stage.
Since then, Melsik has faced several tough tests. He earned a hard-fought win against Tucker Lutz and showed great “Experience” in a victory over Bruno Souza. While he has faced some setbacks, including a tough loss to Jean Silva in early 2025, his ability to bounce back is what defines him. Fans love him because he never plays it safe; he is always looking for the finish.
Fighting Style: Why They Call Him “The Gun”
If you watch a Melsik Baghdasaryan fight, the first thing you notice is his speed. He is called “The Gun” because his strikes come out fast and carry a lot of “bang.” He utilizes a high-volume striking game, landing over 5 significant strikes per minute on average. This pressure often causes opponents to crumble or make mistakes.
His defensive wrestling is also quite strong, which keeps the fight standing where he is most comfortable. He has a takedown defense rate of over 70%, which is vital in a division full of elite wrestlers. By staying on his feet, he can use his diverse arsenal of spinning kicks, knees, and heavy hands to dictate the pace of the match.
Notable Wins and Career Highlights
Throughout his journey, Melsik Baghdasaryan has collected some impressive hardware and victories. His time in the WLF saw him win the International Championship, a major feat in the kickboxing world. In the UFC, his victory over Collin Anglin remains one of the most aesthetic knockouts in recent years.
Another key moment was his win over Tucker Lutz. Lutz was a very highly-regarded prospect, and Melsik’s ability to out-point and out-strike him showed that he belongs among the top tier of the 145-pound division. These wins highlight his “Authoritativeness” in the cage and his growth from a pure kickboxer to a well-rounded mixed martial artist.
Training at Glendale Fighting Club
A huge part of Melsik’s success comes from his environment. Training at the Glendale Fighting Club (GFC) puts him in the company of high-level coaches and sparring partners. The gym is famous for its focus on elite striking, which fits Melsik’s natural talents perfectly. Under the guidance of his coaches, he has integrated his Armenian wrestling roots with his world-class kickboxing.
Being based in California also allows him to stay active in the combat sports community. He is often seen helping other fighters and staying in “fight shape” even when he doesn’t have a bout scheduled. This dedication to the craft is why many analysts believe we still haven’t seen the best version of Melsik Baghdasaryan yet.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Like any professional athlete, Melsik has faced his share of hurdles. Injuries have occasionally slowed his momentum, causing him to withdraw from a few scheduled bouts in 2024 and 2025. However, at 34 years old, he still has plenty of “fire” left in him. The featherweight division is currently wide open, and a couple of big wins could see him climb back into the rankings.
Looking ahead, fans are eager to see him return to the win column. His recent fight against Jean Silva was a tough learning experience, but “The Gun” is known for his resilience. As long as he stays healthy, his exciting style will continue to earn him high-profile spots on UFC cards. He remains one of the most dangerous unranked fighters on the roster.
Conclusion: A True Combat Sports Warrior
In summary, Melsik Baghdasaryan is more than just a fighter; he is a lifelong martial artist. From his early days in Karate to his championships in kickboxing and his current run in the UFC, he has always sought out the toughest challenges. His “The Gun” persona isn’t just for show—it represents a style of fighting that is fast, powerful, and incredibly precise.
Whether you are a new fan or have followed him since his WLF days, there is no denying the excitement he brings to the Octagon. As he continues his journey in the UFC featherweight division, one thing is certain: whenever Melsik is on the card, someone is likely going to sleep!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Melsik Baghdasaryan’s professional MMA record?
As of early 2026, his record stands at 8 wins and 3 losses. He has secured five of those wins via knockout, showcasing his elite striking power.
2. Where is Melsik Baghdasaryan from?
Melsik was born in Yerevan, Armenia. He later moved to the United States and currently fights out of Glendale, California.
3. What weight class does “The Gun” fight in?
He competes in the Featherweight division, which has a weight limit of 145 pounds. He has also occasionally fought at Lightweight (155 lbs) earlier in his career.
4. Which gym does Melsik train at?
He is a key member of the Glendale Fighting Club, where he trains alongside many other top-tier professional fighters.
5. Has Melsik Baghdasaryan won any titles?
Yes! Before the UFC, he was a Wu Lin Feng International Champion in kickboxing and a K-1 title challenger. He also earned a “Performance of the Night” bonus in his UFC debut.
