Melindo to defend crown in Cebu

Reigning IBF light flyweight champion Milan “El Metodico” Melindo will make the first defense of his title in Cebu City.

Reigning IBF light flyweight champion Milan “El Metodico” Melindo will make the first defense of his title in Cebu City.

After two failed attempts at the coveted world crown, a win over the IBF ranked No.3 108-pounder Fahlan Sakkreerin Jr. of Thailand for the IBF interim title last November provided Milendo a ticket to Japan and another shot at a world championship, this time against regular IBF champion Akira Yaegashi.

Melindo was dominant from the get go, flooring the two-division world champion three times in the canvas en route to a shocking first round TKO. The official time was 2:45.

Melindo thus became Philippines’ fourth current world champion next to Manny Pacquiao, Donnie Nietes, and Jerwin Ancajas.

Melindo is ALA Gym’s new world champion alongside Nietes, the longest-reigning Filipino, three-division and current IBF flyweight king.

For his upcoming defense, Melindo will headline the 42nd edition of the highly successful Pinoy Pride series on September 16 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino against a TBA (to be announced) opponent.

In this file photo, Milan “El Metodico” Melindo of the ALA Boxing Gym celebrates after dethroning Japanese champ Akira Yaegashi via a stunning first round TKO to win the IBF light flyweight title last May 21 in Tokyo, Japan. Melindo will make the first...