Pinoy fighter Melvin Jerusalem falls short in world title bid in Thailand

Previously unbeaten Melvin Jerusalem of Bukidnon fell short in his first world title bid following a points decision loss to WBC world minimumweight champion Wanheng Menayothin on Wednesday in Phitsanulok, Thailand.

The 22-year-old Jerusalem was kept at bay during the fight by the defending Thai champion with jabs and counter punching. In round eight, he was deducted a point for hitting his foe below the belt.

Sensing he's behind on the scorecards, Jerusalem did swing for the fences in the final round but most of his shots missed its target.

The judges awarded the fight to Menayothin after twelve rounds of action. The scorecards were 114-113, 114-114 and 115-113.

It was Jerusalem's first defeat as his record dropped to 11-1 with 7 knockouts while Menayothin improved his unbeaten streak to 45-0 with 17 knockouts. —JST, GMA News