Jerusalem excited to defend crown at home

MANILA, Philippines —  World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem has an opportunity that very few Filipino titlists have been given before.

That is, to defend his belt at home.

Jerusalem, one of only two Filipino reigning world champions – the other is Pedro Taduran, who holds the International Boxing Federation version of the title – will try against undefeated Mexican Luis Castillo Sunday at the Mandaluyong City College Gym.

Such a rare break will most likely send a competitor into either two states of emotion – pressure or excitement. For the 30-year-old pride of Bukidnon, it’s the latter.

“Kasi pangarap kong maka-depensa dito sa Pilipinas,” Jerusalem told Philstar.com after finishing his media workout yesterday at the Elite Gym in BGC, Taguig.