The 33 year-old, who had previously reigned as a two-time IBF belt holder until dethroned by Abner Mares in August 2011, was intent to trade to with Melendez early on, before adopting a more cautious approach from the fourth round onwards.
Agbeko had Melendez in trouble in the sixth round as he asserted his dominance mid-fight, and towards the end of the fight had the South American on the canvas – although the official declared it a slip.
Melendez made it to the end of the contest without too much further damage as the three judges came back with cards of 119-111, 117-111 and 117-113 respectively to hand Agbeko the lesser of the five world titles.
