Jerusalem challenges unbeaten Thai for WBC title

MANILA, Philippines – Cebu-based Mindanao brawler Melvin “El Gringo” Jerusalem of the ALA Boxing Gym will face the toughest test of his budding career as he challenges the undefeated Thai champion Wanheng Menayothin for the WBC minimumweight crown today in Phitsanulok, Thailand.

All the odds are stuck against the 22-year-old Jerusalem as he fights behind enemy’s lines against a top-caliber champ in Menayothin who sports a frightening 44-0 record packed with 17KOs.

But Jerusalem’s chief strategist Edito “ALA” Villamor said his ward is ready to rise above the challenge.

“He (Jerusalem) should make an impression in every round. If there’s a chance and he gets the right timing, it would be better for him to finish off the fight early,” said Villamor. “I know he has the power to knock out Menayothin but above all, he must get the attention of the judges and show to them that he is willing to become a world champion.”

Jerusalem, unscathed in 11 fights with 7KOs, is seeing action for the first time on foreign soil. But he is no stranger to going up against dangerous foes, even making a statement against the likes of former IBF titleholder Florante Condes and WBC International light flyweight titlist Jonathan Refugio.  

“I will do my my best and give my all in this fight,” said the Bukidnon-native world title hopeful who clobbered former regional champ Fabio Marfa during his previous match on Nov. 25 last year at the Cebu Coliseum.

Menayothin, on the other hand, will make his sixth defense of the WBC belt he seized after beating Osaldo Novoa of Mexico on Nov.  6, 2014 at the Chonburi provincial gymnasium in Thailand.