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.
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