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"Melo" Lopez back in action in Miami July 24th
PhilBoxing.com Wed, 08 Jul 2020

Fast rising bantamweight Melvin "Melo" Lopez (21-1, 12) makes his anticipated ring return July 24th in Miami. It will be his first fight since October of 2019. He will take on Szilveszter Kanalas (14-10, 9 KOs) of Hungary in a scheduled 10 round non title bout.
Lopez will look to get back to the top of the world rankings where he was less than a year ago. He trains in Miami in the same gym as world champion Felix Alvarado, former champion Cristofer Rosado, and Mike Plania, who just scored a huge upset of #1 ranked Joshua Greer. Ironically Lopez fought and won in Plania's native Philppines in 2018. Lopez has long respected the Philippines' most famous resident Manny Pacquiao .
Will you continue to fight at 118 pounds?
Yes. I have no problem making the weight. I am careful not to put on too much weight in between fights.
You’re surrounded by a world class training mates in current IBF champion Felix Alvarado, former WBC champion Cristofer Rosales, rising star Mike Plania. How has the experience been training with them?
Experience is the key word. I gain so much of it by training in that type of environment.
What does it mean to you as you see how successful that have all become in the ring?
It is extremely motivating for me as I see how hard they all work and see their individual successes.
You actually fought in the Philippines in 2018. What was that experience like?
I have followed Manny Pacquiao's career for many years. Even though he was not at the fight it really felt special for me to fight in his homeland. It was a good fight. I was happy to have had the experience and winning the fight as well. Felix Alvarado who I share the same Manager with won his world title in the Philippines as well about a month after my victory.
What do you like to do on your free time?
I like to sketch drawings and listen to music as well.
What goals have you set for yourself as you return to the ring?
I always consult with my manager William Ramirez(WRAM Boxing) first as I value his opinion. When the time is right I definitely want the opportunity to be in the big fights.
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