WBC 105-pound champion Melvin Jerusalem is currently putting the finishing touches on his camp in South Africa. The man they call “El Gringo” carries the weight of a world championship with a quiet humility and a constant, infectious smile. Jerusalem headlines the “One Way to Redemption” tournament at South Africa's Emperors Palace on May 16, defending his belt against local man own Siya Kuse. Despite the magnitude of the event, Jerusalem remains remarkably grounded, navigating his time in South Africa with a soft-spoken charm that belies the warrior within.
The 32-year-old’s journey began at age 13 in Manila, inspired by his brother and friends. A veteran of roughly 100 amateur fights and a medalist at the Philippines National Games, his foundation was built on the influence of legendary countryman Manny Pacquiao. “He’s a legend in the Philippines, where we are all small people,” Jerusalem says of “Pacman”, though he also credits five-time world champion Katsunari Takayama as a hero.
Today, Jerusalem has become a hero in his own right, acting as a role model for his community and providing for his mother and five siblings following the passing of his father. Jerusalem’s record (25-3) is a testament to his resilience. His only decisive loss came against Oscar Collazo in 2023, a fight he views as a pivotal learning moment. “I told myself, he was better than me. I must train harder, get better,” he recalls.
While he dreams of a unification bout with Collazo down the line, his sights are currently locked on Kuse. Having narrowly beaten Kuse in their first encounter, Jerusalem admits he wasn’t entirely satisfied with his performance. He has made the necessary adjustments, sparring around 100 rounds in a camp that initially began in Japan, a country he loves for its lifestyle and food.
Under the watchful eye of trainer and 63-fight veteran Michael Domingo, Jerusalem’s preparation has been clinical. A strict diet of fish, fruit, and vegetables ensures he makes weight without the typical struggle, leaving him lean, healthy, and ready for a dozen hard rounds. Boxing is central to everything he does, but he says he switches off by playing basketball or baseball.
Though he will have little vocal support in the arena next weekend, Jerusalem is undeterred. He has travelled the world to defend his status, with significant wins in Japan and a bout in America under his belt. He trusts the South African people and feels at home at Emperors Palace, where local Filipinos have already stopped by to wish their champion well.
As he prepares to walk to the ring on May 16th, Jerusalem remains focused on one goal: bringing pride back to the Philippines. “If I win, no problem,” he says with that trademark smile, ready to prove once again why he belongs at the top of the mountain.
