Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalemm the WBC 105-pound champion, has established himself as one of the most feared little big men in the sport.  Jerusalem, born on February 22, 1994 in the Philippines, made his professional debut in 2014, but it wasn’t all glory at the beginning, with three losses in his first twenty fights. His first loss came in a title bid vs. Wanheng Menayothin in 2017. It was a very close fight, with a low-blow point deduction costing Jerusalem a draw. In hisnext fight, however, his career took a sharp downturn with a loss to unheralded Joey Canoy. At that point, few imagined that this not-quite 5'2" tall young man would become a dominant force in boxing. But he went on a nearly six-year winning streak before losing for the third time, a WBO title shot vs. Oscar Collazo.

 

Before turning professional, “Gringo” had a notable amateur boxing career in the Philippines. In 2012, he won a bronze medal in the National Championship, and in 2014, he took home the silver medal at the National Games after defeating three opponents and falling in the final. Fast forward to March 2024 when the boxing world took notice of him again: in Nagoya, Japan, he surprised Yudai Shigeoka, whom he defeated by split decision with two knockdowns in his favor. In this way, Jerusalem was crowned WBC minimumweight champion.

 

Months later, in September, he made his first defense with authority against Mexican Luis Castillo, whom he sent to the canvas in the first round and dominated for the rest of the fight. His performance earned him the Boxer of the Month award from the Philippine Sports Commission.

 

But the Filipino was not content. In March 2025, he returned to Japanese territory to reaffirm his superiority over Shigeoka, this time by unanimous decision, with wide scorecards (118-110, 119-109, and 116-112). His performance was praised by WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán, who recognized his discipline and consistency in the ring.

 

With a current record of 24 wins (12 by KO) and 3 losses, Jerusalem has earned a place among the best fighters of the lightest men's division. His orthodox style, combining speed, technique, and punching power, has made him an uncomfortable opponent and a key figure in the resurgence of Filipino boxing in the smaller divisions. At 31 years old, Melvin Jerusalem is not just a champion; he is a symbol of perseverance. From a forgotten prospect to a world monarch, his story is a lesson that in boxing, as in life, third chances can change everything.