Jerusalem loses title to Kuse in rematch
MANILA, Philippines — A late knockdown was not enough for Melvin Jerusalem to retain his World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight crown, falling to Siyakholwa Kuse via unanimous decision Sunday morning (Manila time) at the Emperor’s Palace in South Africa.
Jerusalem, who defeated Kuse in the Thrilla in Manila 2 event back in October, could not replicate the same this time around in the South African’s hometown.
One judge had Kuse winning 116-112, while the other had him ahead 116-111 and 115-112.
The two boxers were trading blows early, but the Filipino suffered a cut in the second round after a clash of heads.
They went toe-to-toe in the first half of the match, but Kuse became the aggressor in the later rounds, landing crisp punches and combinations as Jerusalem tried hard to close the gap.
And while the pride of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon swung and sent Kuse to the canvas with a huge right hand, the South African quickly stood up and beat the count.
Jerusalem tried to go for the kill in the 12th and final round, but Kuse answered the FIlipino’s attempts with solid footwork and counters.
At the end of the match, the judges gave their nod to the home bet.
El Gringo’s record dropped to 25-4 (12 knockouts,) while Kuse rose to a 10-3-1 win-loss-draw slate.
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