Jerusalem excited for first title defense
By Lito delos Reyes
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 01 Mar 2023
NEWLY-crowned World Boxing Organization world minimumweight champion Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon is now excited for his first title defense against undefeated Oscar Collazo of Puerto Rico slated on May 27.
“I'm excited for the defense and I'm trying to defend my belt for a long time for the future,” said Jerusalem (20-2-0, 12KOs).
The 29-year-old Jerusalem has been training for one month and started his sparring last Monday at the Omega Boxing Gym in Cebu.
“I have been sparring also with Japanese boxers at Omega,” said Jerusalem.
He has three months more to prepare for the fight.
“Next week I'll be in Japan for training for one month,” said Jerusalem.
Jerusalem will then fly back to the Philippines for one month then go to the venue for two months, either in Los Angeles or Puerto Rico.
“The venue will still be finalized,” said Jerusalem.
Jerusalem’s managers Nobuyuki Matsuura and Marivic Matsuura of ZIP are still looking for additional Japanese sparmates.
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