Yudai Shigeoka Trains in the Philippines Ahead of High-Stakes Rematch with Melvin Jerusalem
By Dong Secuya
PhilBoxing.com
Mon, 27 Jan 2025
Former WBC minimumweight world champion Yudai Shigeoka is leaving no stone unturned as he prepares for his much-anticipated rematch with reigning champion Melvin Jerusalem in March 2025. In a surprising move, the Japanese star has set up camp in the Philippines, training extensively ahead of his shot at redemption.
Shigeoka’s Philippine Training Camp: A Bold Statement?
Shigeoka (9-1, 5 KOs) has been spotted training at the renowned Elorde Boxing Gym in Manila, alongside his coach Seiji Shinoda. His training regimen has included sparring with Filipino knockout artist Miel Fajardo, as well as grueling long-distance runs to sharpen his conditioning as reported by Cebu Daily News.
However, his decision to prepare outside of Japan—despite its world-class boxing facilities—has raised eyebrows. Some speculate that this move is a psychological play, signaling to Jerusalem (23-3, 12 KOs) that he is willing to immerse himself in his opponent’s territory to reclaim the WBC world title.
A Rivalry Reignited: The Road to the Rematch
Their upcoming showdown marks almost a year since their electrifying first encounter on March 31, 2024, in Nagoya, Japan. In that fight, Jerusalem stunned the boxing world by dropping Shigeoka twice en route to a split-decision victory, snatching the WBC belt in enemy territory.
Since then, both fighters have remained active. Jerusalem successfully defended his title in September 2024, dominating Mexican challenger Luis Castillo in Mandaluyong City with a wide unanimous decision victory. Meanwhile, Shigeoka rebounded in August 2024 with a solid win over Filipino Samuel Salva in Suita, Japan.
Jerusalem Prepares for War
While Shigeoka sharpens his skills in Manila, Jerusalem is also in deep preparation. The champion started training in his hometown of Bukidnon before shifting to the ZIP Sanman Boxing Gym in Cebu City, where he is refining his strategy to ensure his hand is raised once again in March.
Despite his status as champion, Jerusalem knows that defeating a motivated Shigeoka for a second time—at his opponents turf—will be no easy task.
March 2025: Redemption or Repeat?
The exact date and venue of the rematch have yet to be announced, but the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Shigeoka reclaim his lost crown, proving that his first loss was a mere setback? Or will Jerusalem once again silence the doubters and cement his reign as WBC world champion?
One thing is certain—when these two warriors step into the ring, expect nothing less than fireworks.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Dong Secuya.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Rise of the Samurai: Inoue vs Nakatani in 2026
By Carlos Costa, Wed, 02 Apr 2025Undefeated super middleweight prospect Tommy Hyde a true Irish Road Warrior In Australia for April 11th fight
Wed, 02 Apr 2025Melvin the Avenger
By Joaquin Henson, Wed, 02 Apr 2025WORLD-RANKED LIGHTWEIGHT ARMANDO MARTINEZ RABI TO FACE ALBERTO GUEVARA IN MAIN EVENT OF FISTS OF FURY 6
Wed, 02 Apr 2025Carlos Flowers Shines on Day One for Team USA in World Boxing Cup: Brazil 2025
Wed, 02 Apr 2025Tellez Sisters Reina and Gabriela Sign with Boxlab Promotions
Wed, 02 Apr 2025Arena Grand Master Mohamad Sacar sweeps 1st Vientiane Open FIDE Rated Standard Chess Tournament
By Marlon Bernardino, Wed, 02 Apr 2025Unbeaten junior middleweight prospect Anthony “ATV” Velazquez Ready to bust out of New England
Tue, 01 Apr 2025BOOTS VS. STANIONIS – ‘MAKE THE DAYS COUNT’ PREMIERES NOW
Tue, 01 Apr 2025“THE FILIPINO FLASH” NONITO DONAIRE TO MAKE FIRST VISIT TO CANASTOTA FOR 2025 HALL OF FAME WEEKEND FESTIVITIES
Tue, 01 Apr 2025Tokyo Olympian Rashida Ellis signs long term management contract with Trifon Petrov
Tue, 01 Apr 2025Fightbook Adds Brendan Gibbons to Lead Athlete & Fan Activation Strategy
Tue, 01 Apr 2025BOXLAB PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO ORLANDO FOR ACTION-PACKED FIGHT NIGHT ON APRIL 18
Tue, 01 Apr 2025Takeaways From Last Weekend's Fights in Japan
By Teodoro Medina Reynoso, Mon, 31 Mar 2025Lope Tenorio: El Bulakeño Matón (The Bulacan Brawler)
By Emmanuel Rivera, RRT, Mon, 31 Mar 2025