Melindo (31-1-0,12 KOs), who lost in his first attempt to win a major title in 2013 against Juan Francisco ‘El Gallo’ Estrada of Mexico , will be training in the U.S. before moving to Mexico for the IBF junior flyweight title fight.
The 26-year-old fighter from Cagayan de Oro, Philippines is coming off a majority decision win against Martin Tecuapetla, also from Mexico last May.
After his loss to Estrada in Macau, China, Melindo made a quick recovery by beating Mexican Alfredo Rodriguez in May 2013 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Philippines.
Melindo is one of the rising Filipino boxers in ALA Promotions stable that include Donnie “Ahas” Nietes. Genesis “Azukal” Servania, Jason “El Niño” Pagara, Rey “Boom Boom” Bautista, Merlito “Tiger” Sabillo,“King” Arthur Villanueva and Jimrex “Executioner” Jaca, among others.
“It is dangerous but it would be good for Milan to prove that he can win it in enemy territory just like Donnie (Nietes),” ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer told Sun.Star Cebu.
Mendoza (23-2-1,19 KOs) is a known power puncher, having knocked out 19 of his 26 opponents since turning pro in 2007.
The 23-year-old fighter has successfully defended his title with a second round stoppage against Mauricio Fuentes last January.
Mendoza has won his last 10 fights with only one going the distance.
