May 16th is the date for Jerusalem vs. Kuse II

Source: WBC

31/03/2026

May 16th is the date for Jerusalem vs. Kuse II

On May 16th, Kempton Park, South Africa, will host a rematch between WBC 105-pound champion Melvin Jerusalem (pictured) and local contender Siyakholwa Kuse. This fight represents a direct continuation of their October 2025 clash, when the Filipino successfully defended his title, winning by unanimous decision in a close and highly competitive fight. In that bout, the champion's experience proved decisive in the final rounds, where he landed the cleanest and most effective punches to sway the judges' scorecards in his favor. However, Kuse left a solid impression, displaying aggression, punching power, and the ability to compete at the highest level, despite his shorter professional career. The South African Kuse sees this rematch as an opportunity for redemption. Younger and hungry for revenge, he will look to correct the mistakes that cost him the first fight and take advantage of fighting at home.
 
In 2024, Jerusalem became a two-time champion in the 105-pound division when he upset Japan's Yudai Shigeoka (8-1) via split decision in Nagoya, Japan. A WBO champion for four months in 2023, Jerusalem (22-3) scored knockdowns in the third and sixth rounds on his way to prevailing on two of the three judges' scorecards at the end of the twelve rounds.

PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE

OCT. 30, 2025: In the main event of the big Manila show celebrating the fiftieth annviersary of Muahammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier III, there was a WBC minimumweight championship fight. Melvin Jerusalem of the Philippines retained his 105-pound title in a fiercely-contested unanimous decision win over brave South African challenger Siyakholwa Kuse. The battle featured twelve high-quality rounds of action with several shifts in momentum. It was a late rally from Jerusalem (25-3, 12 KOs) that allowed him retain his title in front of his adoring home fan base. However, Kuse (9-3-1, 4 KOs) leaves Manila with his reputation enhanced after an impressive display of southpaw skill. It was the cleaner, more effective shots of Jerusalem that saw him awarded the victory by scores of 115-113 and 116-112 (twice).

AUG. 23, 2025: WBC minimumweight champion Melvin “El Gringo” Jerusalem is preparing for his third title defense in October. Originally, the Filipino Jerusalem was set to face Mexico's Daniel Valladares, but due to logistical changes, South Africa's Siyakholwa Kuse has been confirmed as his new opponent. Kuse, ranked #2 by the WBC, is a 22 year-old southpaw with a professional record of 9 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw, and 4 KOs. In his most recent fight, held in May 2025, he defeated Filipino Sammy Salva. This will be his first opportunity to fight for a world title. Jerusalem, age 31, has been training in Nagoya, Japan since early August to strengthen his physical and technical preparation. With a record of 24 wins, 3 losses, and 12 KOs, the Filipino aims to maintain his world champion status and continue his path toward unifying the major world titles. The bout between Jerusalem and Kuse will take place in Manila, on a date to be confirmed. This matchup promises to be an exciting battle, with both fighters aiming to make their mark in boxing history.

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