MELVIN “Gringo” Jerusalem of ALA Boxing Gym and two-time world title challenger Toto “Muscovado” Landero of Muntinlupa City promised an exciting bout when they clash in the main event of the Idol 4 Boxing Series at the Minglanilla Sports Complex on Saturday night, Nov. 10.
“We both trained for this fight. Both of us are ready. For sure it’s going to be exciting. Everything will be decided on the ring,” Jerusalem said in Cebuano during a press conference at the Abuhan Restaurant on Thursday, Nov. 8.
“I’m looking forward to a good fight. I’ve trained hard for this fight,” said Landero, who will be fighting in Cebu for the second time after pulling off a huge-win here last year against former world-title challenger Vic Saludar at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex.
Jerusalem (13-2, 8KOs) and Landero (10-3-2, 1KO) both know the importance of the fight.
“This is a risky fight for Jerusalem. The style of two fighters are compatible which is a recipe for a good fight. Both fighters know the risk. It’s a must-win also for Landero to keep his career alive,” said Jerusalem’s trainer Edito Villamor.
The 23-year-old Landero is coming off two defeats. He challenged Thammanoon Niyomtrong for the WBA title last March but lost via decision. He then faced African pugilist Simphiwe Khonco for the IBF belt last July but again lost via unanimous decision.
Despite the two losses, Landero is still a dangerous opponent, having fought two world title challengers, said Villamor.
Jerusalem who hails from Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon is looking for a win to bolster his rematch hopes against Thai boxing superstar Wahneng Menayothin. Jerusalem lost to Menayothin in the WBC minimumweight title fight last year in Thailand.
In the supporting main-bout, undefeated fighter Esneth Domingo (10, 6KOs) of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat will trade leathers with Reymark Taday (9-6-1, 4KOs) of Biñan City, Laguna, while Christian Bacolod (9, 7KOs) and Christoval Furog (5, 2KOs) of Sultan Kudarat will look to stay undefeated.
Completing the fight card are Joyjoy Formentera against Crison Omayao; Danny Villafuerte Jr against Mark Jun Bato of Compostela; and Jemuel Azucenas of Mabinay, Negros Occidental against Kervent Aresco of Carmen Cebu. (RSC)