Melindo wants a short, swift fight vs. Estrada

CEBU, Philippines - ALA Boxing Gym stalwart Milan ‘El Metodico’ Melindo (29-0, 12KOs) wants a short, swift fight when he challenges Mexican double champion Juan Francisco Estrada (24-2, 18KOs) for the WBO and WBA flyweight titles on July 27 at the Cotai Arena of The Venetian Hotel and Resort in Macau, China.

"The earlier, the better," said the 25-year-old Melindo as he vowed to go for an early stoppage against Estrada. “Right now, I'm 90% ready in my conditioning but it will be more than a hundred percent the moment I step in the ring to meet him (Estrada). For sure, there will be knockout because that’s what I trained hard for. If it happens, hopefully it will come early."

The pride of Cagayan de Oro City is close to peak form with less than two weeks away from the toughest challenge of his fistic career.

Both Melindo and Estrada made an impression in the first ever pro boxing show in Macau last April 6.

Melindo dished out a masterful fourth round knockout of Indonesian Tommy Seran, while Estrada systematically punched his way to dethrone Fil-Am Brian Viloria via a well-deserved split decision and emerge as the WBO and WBA flyweight king.

On the other hand, ALA Gym chief trainer Edito Villamor described Melindo as a more determined and hungry boxer based on what his prized ward has shown in their training camp.

“He's in great shape and in top condition compared to our previous preparations for a fight,” said Villamor. “He has sparred close to a hundred rounds and he really looks ready to take that belt.”

Melindo, the WBO No.1 minimumweight contender, has proven himself worthy to vie for the throne currently held by Estrada by defeating some of the strong fighters in the 112-pound division such as former world champions John Piero Perez, Jesus Geles, Carlos Tamara and Muhammad Rachman.

Aside from Melindo, another unbeaten ALA mainstay Genesis ‘Azukal’ Servania (21-0, 8KOs) will also show his stuff in Macau. Servania will make his debut on the international stage against Japanese Konosuke Tomiyama (23-5, 8KOs) in a non-title clash scheduled for 10 rounds.

 (FREEMAN)