Filipino champion Melvin Jerusalem is set to defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight title against the confident and undefeated Mexican boxer Luis Angel Castillo. The much-anticipated showdown will take place at the Mandaluyong City College on Sunday, September 22.
Jerusalem, aged 30, carries a professional record of 22 wins, 3 losses, and 12 knockouts (KOs). This mandatory title defense follows his victory over Yudai Shigeoka last March, in which he secured the belt via split decision in Nagoya, Japan. Jerusalem’s trainer, Michael Domingo, noted that they anticipated Castillo as a mandatory challenger from the moment Jerusalem became champion. Consequently, the team promptly resumed training following a brief vacation.
Castillo, 27, who holds a perfect record of 21 wins with 13 KOs, is stepping into the ring for his first career title shot, and notably, his first fight abroad. Despite these firsts, Castillo confidently predicted his own success during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum, stating through an interpreter, ‘I know this is going to be a tough fight, but I know we will emerge victorious, and I want to tell the champion here that he should enjoy his days as a world champion.’
In response, Jerusalem remained composed, advising Castillo to enjoy his time in the Philippines and patiently await the bout’s outcome. Accompanying Jerusalem at the PSA Forum were his trainer Michael Domingo and JC Mananquil of Sanman Promotions, while Castillo was joined by his trainer Eduardo Montiel.
This fight marks a significant event, as it will be the first world boxing championship held in the Philippines in seven years. The bout will be aired by Blow By Blow, with CEO Marife Barrera also present at the forum.
As both fighters prepare to enter the ring, all eyes are set on Mandaluyong City College for what promises to be a thrilling and historic contest. The matchup between Jerusalem and Castillo not only presents a clash of two formidable boxers but also symbolizes a momentous occasion in the world of Philippine boxing.
Source: Rappler