Melindo, Banal to prove they still got the stuff to become world boxing champs

FORMER world title challengers Milan “El Metodico” Melindo and AJ “Bazooka” Banal, the 23rd edition of “Pinoy Pride XXIII: Filipinos Kontra Latinos” will prove that they are again ready to fight for the world boxing crowns.

Both fighters suffered harrowing losses in their respective world title fights.

Melindo (29-1,12KOs) a WBO international flyweight champion, bowed to Mexican Juan Francisco Estrada last July 27 in Macao, China in his first title challenge.

Banal (29-2-1, 21KOs), on the other hand, was knocked out by Rafael “El Torito” Concepcion (18-6-1, 8KOs) last 2008 here in Cebu when they clashed for the WBA super flyweight title. Then last year, his second crack at a world crown was spoiled by Thailand’s Pungluang Sor Singyu.

And although he won his comeback fight last July 13 against Mexican Abraham Gomez, Banal said it was a disappointing win because Gomez quit after the second round.

So, on Nov. 30, Melindo and Banal vowed to make a show when they fight separate Latino rivals at the historic Araneta Coliseum in PP XXIII.

Banal and Melindo are part of a five-man main event card to be headlined by WBO minimumweight champion Merlito “Tiger” Sabillo and WBO lightflyweight champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes (see separate story).

Completing the card is WBO International light welterweight champion Jason “El Niño” Pagara.

Melindo said his loss to Estrada last July taught him valuable lessons.

“Do not underestimate your opponent, don’t be too confident and excited. I think these will be the lessons that will serve me good when I fight again on Nov. 30,” Melindo said.

He said he will do his best to win and contend for a world title again. “I think God has a better plan for me at that time that’s why he did not let me win the title. Instead he gave me a lesson that I have to learn. I’ll do my best to become a world champion someday.” /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL