Melvin Jerusalem, one of two reigning Filipino world boxing champions, is set to defend his WBC minimumweight title against undefeated Mexican challenger, Luis Castillo, on September 22 at Mandaluyong City College Gym.
The 30-year-old Jerusalem, holding a 22-3 win-loss record with 12 knockouts, is gearing up for what he acknowledges will be a challenging fight. His opponent, Castillo, boasts a 22-0-1 record with 13 knockouts. Acknowledging Castillo’s strengths, Jerusalem has been intensifying his training under Michael Domingo at the ZIP Sanman Gym in Cebu.
Castillo, three years younger than Jerusalem and standing 5-foot-5 1/2 inches tall with a 66-inch reach, poses a significant threat. In response, Jerusalem is focused on defending his title successfully in front of his home crowd. He previously claimed the WBC title from the then undefeated Japanese boxer Yudai Shigeoka via split decision on March 31 in Nagoya.
The event will be showcased on Cignal’s One Sports channel as part of a special edition of ‘Blow by Blow,’ the weekly television presentation by Manny Pacquiao. Pacquiao, the only eight-division world champion, expressed his enthusiasm for the bout, noting how significant it is for Jerusalem to defend his title on home turf.
Jerusalem is one of two current Filipino world champions, alongside Pedro Taduran, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) 105-pound titleholder. Pacquiao has emphasized the importance of showcasing Filipino talent on a global stage, attributing the success of ‘Blow by Blow’ to a strong support system.
Also featured in the event is Jerwin Ancajas, former longtime IBF super flyweight champion, who will be making his debut as a featherweight against Thai veteran Sukpraserd Ponpitak. Ancajas, with a record of 34-3-2 and 23 knockouts, is favored over Ponpitak, who holds a 30-19 record with 20 knockouts.
Meanwhile, Castillo enters the fight with momentum, having defeated his last 15 opponents, nine by stoppage, since a draw in 2017. His southpaw stance and knockout power make him a formidable challenge for Jerusalem.
With preparations in full swing, Melvin Jerusalem is set to defend his WBC minimumweight title against a formidable opponent, underscoring the event’s importance for Filipino boxing.
Source: Rappler