MEXICAN challenger Juan “Panterita” Esquer yesterday warned that reigning World Boxing Organization intercontinental flyweight titleholder Milan “El Metodico” Melindo “will be in for a surprise” when they clash on Saturday at the Waterfront Hotel in Lahug, Cebu City.
“Whether it is by a knockout or by decision, I came here to win,” the 24-year-old pride of Navojoa Sonora, Mexico said through an interpreter in a press conference promoting the headliner of the “Pinoy Pride XI, Philippines vs. The World” organized by ALA Promotions. Nicknamed “Panterita” for his aggressive fighting style, Esquer said he had not seen a tape of the Filipino champ “because I don’t believe what I see on video, which is usually different in the actual fight.” Esquer, who has a record of 27 wins (21 KOS), eight losses and two draws, arrived last Monday with his manager Edmundo Gaytan, trainer Juan Paredes and compatriot Diego “Tyson” Ledesma, who will take on Lorenzo “Thunderbolt” Villanueva in the ten-round under-card. ALA Promotions vice president Dennis Canete said based on the tapes they saw of the Mexican contender, “Esquer is an active fighter who is not above resorting to dirty tactics like head-butts. Melindo will have his work cut out for him.” punch, Canete noted Melindo has been slowly developing his punching power, having stopped four of his last five opponents.
Undefeated in 25 bouts, highlighted by nine knockouts, Melindo will make his first defense of the title he won at the expense of Mexican Francisco Rosas, who was forced to retire after 10 rounds when they fought for the vacant WBO crown last Sept. 9 also at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City. Esquer said he’s ready to mix it up in Melindo’s hometown “and on Saturday everybody will see why.” (malaya)
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