Melindo vows to make most of second chance

CEBU, Philippines - Milan “El Metodico” Melindo faltered in his first world title shot. It was a humbling experience he could hardly accept at first. Not because it tarnished his once squeaky-clean record, but because he strongly felt deep inside that he fairly won the fight.

"I was really saddened by the result because I know I won that fight," said Melindo in recollecting his unanimous decision loss to WBA/WBO flyweight champion Juan Francisco Estrada two years ago in Macau.

But time heals. Melindo has eventually learned to understand a valuable lesson in life that sometimes you win some, you lose some.

"I've learned my lessons well from that defeat that is why I promised myself to move on and come back stronger," said the resurgent ALA Boxing Gym star.

That's the best thing Melindo should do, especially now that he's given another chance to fulfill his childhood dreams of becoming a world champion.

ALA Promotions President and CEO Michael P. Aldeguer has confirmed that they have already agreed in principle for Melindo to challenge IBF junior flyweight champion Javier “Cobra” Mendoza on April 25 at the Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutiérrez Moreno in Tijuana, Mexico.

“We haven't signed any contract yet because there are still some details that have to be cleared out but yes, we have already agreed in principle about it (Melindo vs. Mendoza). It's set for April 25 in Mexico," said Aldeguer in a text message.

Aldeguer said they have no reservations in letting Melindo fight at his foe's lair.

"We have high confidence in Milan's ability and we believe in what he is capable of doing. If he wins, then it will be a good jumpstart to his career," said Aldeguer.

Melindo himself  has no qualms invading enemy lines.

"A true warrior never backs down from any given challenge. And a veteran fighter like me is even more challenged to fight in my opponent's territory," said Melindo. "It's a hard and tough challenge though, but I have to face it and I will give my best and show to all boxing fans who am I inside the ring."

"This is an important fight for me because seldom you are given another chance to vie for a world title and I must make the most out of this opportunity," added the pride of Cagayan de Oro City.

For his part, ALA chief trainer Edito Villamor said they have a lot of  work to do in order for them to accomplish their gargantuan mission.

"Mendoza is a strong and dangerous boxer. Not only Melindo is going up against a world champion, the fight will also be held in Mexico that is why we will train him very hard and put him in the best condition he could possibly have in his career,” said Villamor.

Meanwhile, to jack up his rigid workout at the ALA Gym, Aldeguer said they will bringing in Melindo for further training in the United States a day after their “Pinoy Pride 30” card on March 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Melindo will be joined by Jason “El Niño” Pagara, who will headline ALA Promotions' first ever “Pinoy Pride” show in the US on May 23 in San Diego, California. (FREEMAN)