Pinoys gear for foreign invasion

CEBU, Philippines - Five Filipino ring gladiators will wage war against foreign foes in the 11th edition of the Pinoy Pride boxing series dubbed as “ Philippines vs. the World” this January 28 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Headed by undefeated Milan ‘El Metodico’ Melindo, five ALA stalwarts are prepared and proud to represent the country as they go up against topnotch fighters from around the world.

“This is to continue what we have started in promoting and elevating Philippine boxing that has now reached its pinnacle,” said ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer during a press conference yesterday at the Teatro Casino in Waterfront Hotel.

“Bringing five different fighters from all around the globe to fight against our boxer, this is just the start in making Cebu the Las Vegas of Asia.”

As a sign of the pride they will be fighting for, ALA Promotions made a specially-designed trophy that is at stake for Team Philippines and to the foreigners to claim.

The 23-year-old reigning WBO Intercontinental flyweight champion Melindo will once again show that he is ripe for a world title shot as he takes on former Mexican world title challenger Juan ‘Panterita’ Esquer.

Melindo believes that an impressive win against the dangerous Esquer will build up his stock for a dream world title shot this year.

Melindo, who is highly rated in all boxing organizations, is eying a shot at WBA flyweight title held by Hernan Marquez of Mexico.

“Andam na gyud ko kung mahatagan man og tsansa sa world title pero sa pagkakaron naa akong atensiyon ni Esquer kinsa akong giisip nga lisud nga kontra,” said Melindo. “Dili ni siya (Esquer) kakompiyansaan kay musulod sad ug lig-on og panga.”

In the undercard, undefeated knockout artist Lorenzo ‘Thundervolt’ Villanueva will face Diego ‘Tyson’ Ledesma, while reigning Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) Merlito ‘Tiger’ Sabillo will see action against Indonesian champion Sofyan Effend Mhar Jhun Macahilig will slug it out against Thai Kaichon Sor Vorapin, while Joseph Von Minoza will slug it out with South Korean Yoo Shin Kim. (FREEMAN)