The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
A point-deduction for a low blow proved costly for Cebu-based Melvin Jerusalem as he lost in his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight title bid against Wanheng Menayothin of Thailand on Wednesday in Bangkok.
Jerusalem, only 22 and only in his 12th fight, lost by unanimous decision to the Thai champion, who is undefeated in 45 fights with 17 knockouts.
After holding his own against the home-town fighter in the first two rounds, Jerusalem lost a bit of steam midway before getting deducted a point in the eighth round for a low blow.
He lost, 115-113, 114-113, 114-113. The two 114-113 scores would have ended up a draw if not for the point deduction.
Despite losing in his first bout in 12 fight, ALA Promotions is all praises for their young ward.
“He was not scared and for a young age, he fought a veteran world champion,” said Michael Aldeguer of ALA Promotions
Aldeguer said one of the primary targets for Jersulem’s title challenge was to give him much-needed exposure in the world stage.
Jerusalem only made his debut last July 13, 2014, only a few months before Menayothin won the WBC 105-pound belt. He was making his sixth title defense against Jerusalem.
“I am happy that it was a good and close fight. Personally, his fight in Thailand was for him to get much-needed experience. His there does not mean it’s over for him. I think he put up a very good performance,” said Aldeguer.
Before facing the Thai champion, the lone bright spot in Jerusalem’s career was a majority decision win over former champion Florante Condes in Feb. 27, 2016.
Aldeguer said that when they took the offer, they knew Jerusalem would be in for the tough fight but decided to accept it to give their ward the experience.
“Many still think that he can be a world champion some day for what he showed in Thailand,” said Aldeguer. PNA