Melvin Jerusalem delivered powerful and punishing blows, but Mexican challenger Luis Angel Castillo held his ground.
In the end, the 30-year-old Jerusalem’s relentless body attacks against the taller Castillo paid off, earning him a unanimous decision victory after their 12-round battle on Sunday at the Mandaluyong City College gymnasium.
A thrilled crowd erupted in cheers as Jerusalem successfully defended his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight (105 lbs) title. The three judges—Shin Kyoung-Ha, Stephen Blea, and Arnulfo Najera—scored the bout decisively in Jerusalem’s favor: 118-109, 120-107, and 120-107.
Standing at 5’2″, Jerusalem admitted he aimed to finish the fight with a knockout, but Castillo proved too durable, absorbing Jerusalem’s relentless punches.
“It didn’t happen. I couldn’t do it. The Mexican is tough,” said Jerusalem.
Jerusalem attempted to overpower Castillo as early as the opening round with a powerful jab, but Castillo remained unshaken, enduring every punch Jerusalem threw him.
