Perez: Defense, timing key to victory

Former WBA interim flyweight champion Jean Piero Perez of Venezuela arrived in Cebu late Friday night and is all geared up for his upcoming fight against WBO international flyweight champion Milan “El Metodico” Melindo in the main event of Pinoy Pride XVI: Philippines Vs Venezuela slated Sept. 22 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Perez (19 wins-4 losses-1 draw, 14KOs) and his team composed of veteran trainer Carlos Arroyo and cut man Lucio Mejia came earlier than expected since they wanted to get used to the Philippine weather. They were supposed to arrive today.

“We want to be acquainted with the weather in Cebu but we were surprised that it is similar with the climate in Panama,” said Arroyo, who is based in Panama together with Perez. “We are also here early to finish the last part of our training, which is just composed of light exercises.”

Arroyo, who is also the trainer of Rafael Concepcion, who handed ALA Boxer Aj “Bazooka” Banal his only defeat in his 29 fights,  is confident that Perez will walk away with the win against Melindo (27 wins-0 losses, 11KOs). He said Perez’s style is perfect for Melindo.

For Perez, good defense and timing will be his key to victory against Melindo, the number one WBO flyweight contender. Perez is the current WBA number three flyweight contender followed by Melindo.

If Perez wins against Melindo, he said he may fight for a world title this year. Because of this, Perez said his fight against Melindo will be very important.

“I came here to fight and to entertain Filipino fans,” said Perez, who starts his final stages of training tomorrow.