Siyakholwa Kuse makes history in South Africa by dethroning Melvin Jerusalem and being crowned WBC World Champion
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – On an unforgettable night for African boxing, local challenger Siyakholwa Kuse made history by dethroning Filipino Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem, snatching the World Boxing Council strawweight world title from him. The bout took place at a packed Emperors Palace, which vibrated with the consecration of a new monarch at 105 pounds.
With a categorical performance, the southpaw fighter originally from the Eastern Cape not only took possession of the green and gold belt, but also took revenge for the unanimous decision defeat he suffered last October in Manila, Philippines. With this triumph, Kuse also fulfills the promise to change the destiny of his family through sport.
From the first round, the bout reflected a high technical intensity. Animated by the fervor of his public, Kuse imposed conditions early thanks to his southpaw stance and a respectable speed, connecting effective combinations that put the defending champion in trouble.
Unlike the first matchup, where Jerusalem’s veteran status allowed him to adjust in the second half of the fight, this time the Filipino failed to figure out the South African’s constant punching volume. Despite Jerusalem’s fierce counterattacks and having scored a knockdown against his rival in round 11, Kuse’s physical strength and lateral movements dictated gave him the victory in the championship rounds.
Kuse’s victory was clearly sealed on the judges’ scorecards, who scored 116-111, 116-112 and 115-112. With this result, the South African improves his record to 10-3-1 (with 4 knockouts), while “Gringo” Jerusalem leaves his record at 25-4 (with 12 knockouts). It is anticipated that the Filipino will execute the direct rematch clause to complete what promises to be a spectacular trilogy.
The event, organized by the prestigious promotional company Golden Gloves, featured the gala presence of Mauricio Sulaimán, president of the WBC. The attendance of the highest boxing authority reaffirmed the organization’s historic ties with South Africa.
