Bukidnon ecstatic over Jerusalem's boxing rise
BOXING fans from the landlocked province of Bukidnon are still in euphoria after the successful title defense of Melvin Jerusalem, the Filipino world boxing champion from Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.
Always dreaming to defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight crown before the hometown crowd, the well-prepared Jerusalem delivered an impressive unanimous decision win over Mexican challenger Luis Castillo last Sunday in Mandaluyong City.
«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 (We have many boxing champions and potential champions in Bukidnon, especially during the time of Hilario Boxing Promotion in Don Carlos town. Hopefully, the program will be rejuvenated now that one of our own is a world champion),» said boxing fan Larry Lafuente from Don Carlos.
OUTCLASSED Filipino champion Melvin Jerusalem (right) pummels Mexican challenger Luis Castillo during their WBC title fight in Mandaluyong City on Sept. 22, 2024. PHOTO BY RIO DELUVIO«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 (When you are from Bukidnon, you are good in boxing. We can not deny that the next Manny Pacquiao will come from our province because Pacman is originally from Bukidnon also),» added Manolito Emnas who is from the same town.
Jerusalem was all over his Mexican foe during the title fight, 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.
AdvertisementThis is the first time that he successfully defended his crown which boosted his confidence even more.
