MELVIN Jerusalem outlasted Toto Landero in a 12-round rematch to win the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) minimumweight title last July 16, 2021 in the main event of boxing show promoted by ZIP Boxing and Sanman Promotions at the Tabunok Sports Complex in Talisay City.
Jerusalem was more accurate with his combinations and got the nod of all threw judges with convincing scores of 116-112, 118-110 and 118-110.
The win should boost Jerusalem’s chances at a world title shot with the World Boxing Council (WBC), wherein he’s currently rated No. 2.
The 27-year-old Jerusalem improved to 17-2 with 10 knockouts, while Landero dropped to 11-6-2 with two knockouts.
Undefeated Dave Apolinario (15-0, 0 KOs) won the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Asia flyweight strap with a third round technical knockout of Charlie Malupangue (9-5-3, 6 KOs) in the event’s co-headliner.
Apolinario should move up the WBA flyweight rankings with the victory. He’s currently ranked No. 8.
In the undercard, one-time world title challenger Jeo Santisima (21-3, 18 KOs) made quick work of Allan Alberca (11-5, 6 KOs) by knocking him out in the opening round of their rematch, World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 12 rated super flyweight KJ Cataraja (13-0, 11 KOs) destroyed Cris Alfante (17-9-1, 9 KOs) in six rounds, Esneth Domingo (15-1, 8 KOs) outclassed Roland Jay Biendema (15-9-1, 8 KOs) by unanimous decision, International Boxing Federation (IBF) No. 7 ranked light flyweight Christian Araneta (20-2, 16 KOs) knocked out veteran Richard Claveras (19-8-2, 16 KOs) in the first round, former amateur standout Criztian Pitt Laurente (7-0, 4 KOs) scored a third round knockout over Kim Lindog (5-11-1, 4 KOs), Judy Flores (10-0, 6 KOs) scored a third round stoppage over Isagani Saludar (3-2, KOs) and Alex Santisima (1-0, 1KO) had a successful pro debut with a second round demolition of Jay-Ar Arnates (0-1). (EKA)