Melindo nearing title fight against fellow Filipino Viloria

Milan Melindo against Brian Viloria?

Thanks but no thanks, for now, according to Melindo’s camp.

Despite pundits believing that he is the next in line, Melindo’s handlers expressed apprehensions about a possible battle between Viloria, the World Boxing Organization flyweight champion, unless they are left with no choice.

“We would not opt to face Viloria because it’s Filipino versus Filipino,” said Chad Canares, ALA Promotions director and marketing officer. “We are not as big as Mexico where we can afford to fight in the same division.”

“But if the sanctioning body would really advice to do the fight, we don’t have a choice,” he added.

Melindo is ranked third in the WBO rankings and, following second-running Giovanni Segura’s defeat at the hands of Viloria last week, his rankings could increase even further if he finishes the job on his task at hand.

Melindo will be defending his WBO Intercontinental flyweight title against Mexican Juan Esquer in the main event of Pinoy Pride 11 on January 28 at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu City.

Melindo (25-0, nine knockouts) expressed confidence against Esquer (27-8-2) where a win will definitely boost his stock for next year.

“Handa po ako lumaban sa world championship pero hindi po ako nagmamadali. Aantayin ko lang kung ano ang sasabihin ng manager ko,” said Melindo as he guested in the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.

Melindo said that he has been training for a while now and has begun sparring this week in preparation for the bout against Esquer.

Still, Melindo can’t help but feel a little bit of confidence when asked about his chances on a possible Viloria fight.

“Kaya ko po siyang talunin. Kapag napipikon kasi siya, sumusugod siya. Pero rinerespeto ko ang lakas at talino niya dahil Olympian siya kaya mahirap din maging kumpiyansa,” Melindo said.

Follow @interaksyon