MELINDO WINS BY TECHNICAL DECISION OVER FLORES

BACOLOD CITY -- Two-time world title challenger Milan 'El Metodico' Melindo found himself drawn into a street fight as his Mexican opponent Maximino Flores charged with a swarming offense and appeared to never stop punching in one of the undercard bouts on the Nietes-Rayito Garcia world title fight at the University of La Salle Coliseum here Saturday night.

Although Flores was the busier and had the better workrate, it was Melindo who connected with crispier and well-timed counters. As what is expected of a rough and tumble bout, head clashes and low blows were to be expected. Flores complained of a headbutt early on while Melindo sustained a cut in the 4th round. Melindo sustained a deep cut in the 7th round due to an accidental headbutt after Melindo's gash was examined by the ring physician, veteran referee Ver Abainza waived off the contest as the result of the fight went to the judges. Cesar Gamboa had it 69-64, Dan Nietes had it 68-65 and Greg Ortega had it 67-66 all in favor of Melindo.