'PINOY PRIDE 8' Tonight Melindo leads Phl pugs vs. Mexico

CEBU, Philippines - There's no backing down for the three Filipino warriors as they will face the biggest test of their careers against tough Mexican foes tonight in the highly-anticipated “Pinoy Pride 8: Philippines Mexico" fight card at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

The undefeated Milan “El Metodico” Melindo will prove once and for all that he is ready for a world title shot, while Jason “El Niño” Pagara and Genesis “Azukal” Servania will try to show they are have what it takes to score an impressive victory against top caliber opponents.

During the official weigh-in yesterday at SM City-Cebu, three-time world title contender Francisco “Chiquita” Rosas (22-8, 13KOs) was five pounds heavier than Melindo (24-0, 8KOs), who easily complied the 112 lbs. weight limit.

With this, Rosas was forced to shed extra poundage with the help of sauna. After a couple of hours, scaled in 113.5 lbs.

ALA President Michael Aldeguer said though that Rosas is trying to gain the upperhand against Melindo by using his weight, but they will also try to make the fight fair as much as possible.

“This is a psychological warfare made by them (Rosas camp) and we cannot avoid this kind of things. Milan has to go with this and it will serve as a test for him,” said Aldeguer.

Heavier or lighter opponent, Melindo doesn’t mind the issue for he has only one thing on his mind and that is scoring a convincing win against the battle-tested Rosas.

“Kabaw ko style gyud ni niya nga magpabug-at pero di ko affected, sakto ko sa preparation ug pabilin akong salig sa akong kaugalingon,” said Melindo. “Pangitaon gyud nako ang knockout, tan-awa lang ninyo.”

In an equally-exciting supporting bout, ALA light welterweight prospect Jason “El Niño” Pagara (27-1, 16KOs) appeared to be the more aggressive fighter against knockout artist Rosbel “ Lobito ” Montoya (34-4, 29KOs).

During the weigh-in, Pagara makes a cut-throat gesture in front of Montoya. “Ako usbon, wa jud ko nahadlok sa iyang record. Andam ko ani og usa ra gyud ang naa sa ako huna-huna og mao ang mudaog,” he added.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old Servania (14-0, 5KOs) maintained his level of confidence in proving to ALA Promotions that he is worthy in fighting on a bigger stage. He will take on veteran Gerson “El Nene” Guerrero (37-8, 29KOs) in an eight-rounder bout. – (FREEMAN)