Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem Faces Siyakholwa Kuse in WBC Strawweight Title Defense

WBC Strawweight world champion Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem will make his third title defense—and second of the year—against South African Siyakholwa Kuse, a multiple-time national champion and current silver beltholder in the division.

The fight is October 24, at the historic Araneta Coliseum, located in Barangay Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines, and promises a clash of styles between two in-form fighters.

Jerusalem regained the world title in 2024 by defeating Yudai Shigeoka via split decision, re-establishing himself among the elite in the division. Kuse, meanwhile, captured the silver title that same year by beating Beaven Sibanda via majority decision, demonstrating his potential as an international contender.

In terms of records, Melvin Jerusalem stands at 24-3, 12 KOs, while Siyakholwa Kuse has a record of 9-2-1, 4 KOs, showcasing an aggressive and effective style that will test the champion’s defense.

This matchup will be a key clash in the strawweight division, with Jerusalem looking to maintain his reign against a motivated and solid opponent.