BOXING fans from the landlocked province of Bukidnon are still in euphoria after the successful title defense of Melvin Jerusalem, currently the only Filipino world boxing champion from Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.
Always dreaming of defending his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimum weight crown before the hometown crowd, the well-prepared Jerusalem delivered an impressive unanimous decision win over Mexican challenger Luis Castillo on Sunday, September 22 in Mandaluyong City College Gym in Metro Manila.
“Daghan Philippine champions ug mga potential nga boksingero sa Bukidnon ilabi na sa una nga buhi pa ang Hilario Boxing Promotion sa Don Carlos. Hopefully, mabuhi ang kadasig karon nga aduna na kitay world champion nga kababayan,” an ecstatic Larry Lafuente told Gold Star Daily.
“Basta taga Bukidnon talented gyod na. Dili nato matagna nga ang the next Manny Pacquiao will come from our province kay si Pacman originally taga Bukidnon sab,” added one Manolito Emnas.
Jerusalem was all over his Mexican foe, overwhelming him with speed and skill to hammer out a 118-109, 120-107, and 120-107 from all three ring judges.
The small but feisty Jerusalem waxed hot early, knocking down Castillo in the opening round with a booming right straight, and handily sustained the momentum in the entire 12 rounds.
