MANILA, Philippines, September 21 ------ Filipino champion Melvin Jerusalem and Mexican challenger Luis Castillo are gunning for knockouts when they tangle for the World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight crown on Sunday, September 22, at the Mandaluyong City College. While Jerusalem bared he would go for the kill when the opportunity arises, Castillo said earlier he’s certain the fight would end via knockout, with him emerging triumphant.
Although Castillo, unbeaten in 21 fights with 13 KOs and 1 draw, didn’t mention any round, the 27-year-old southpaw promised to bring the fight to Jerusalem, who’s 3 1/2 inches shorter with a 4-inch reach deficit. “I feel fine, I feel strong. I will bring the crown to Mexico,” Castillo said during the press conference of Manny Pacquiao Presents: Blow by Blow at the Manila Hotel on Thursday, September 19.
Jerusalem, however, is determined to keep the title this time. In his first defense of the World Boxing Organization (WBO) mini flyweight belt in 2023, Jerusalem lost. “I learned a lot from my last title defense. It was very painful experience,” he said. “I worked so hard to win a world title and it was taken from me just like that. I’m giving everything I have this time.”
No wonder, Jerusalem has trained hard at the ZIP Sanman Gym in Cebu under Michael Domingo and prepared for whatever Castillo would bring in the ring. They’ve watched Castillo’s previous fights and noted that the Mexican’s overhand stood out. Domingo said Jerusalem packs more punching power now and has strengthened his lower body, just in case Castillo attacks from below.
According to Jerusalem, he’s not taking Castillo lightly in the main event of the 14-fight card made possible by the legendary Manny Pacquiao through Blow by Blow supported by San Miguel Corporation, Petron, and Ginebra San Miguel. “I’ll go for it (knockout) if there’s an opening. I have to size him up first,” said Jerusalem on the way out of the venue. Domingo concurred: “We will do it methodically.”
Also present during the press conference were Castillo’s trainer Eduardo Montiel, Blow by Blow executive Marife Barrera and Sanman Promotions head JC Manangquil.
Source: rappler.com
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