International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran has found something to fall back on in the event Puerto Rican two-belt titleholder reaches an agreement to face World Boxing Council (WBC) titlist Melvin Jerusalem.
Sean Gibbons, who heads Viva Promotions and Manny Pacquiao Promotions in the United States, confirmed that Collazo, his camp and Golden Boy Promotions (GBP) are dead-set on tapping Jerusalem as opponent for a fight being targeted for late-March or April in Puerto Rico.
“Collazo really, really wants Melvin but they’re still up in the air and they haven’t chosen which guy (to fight) but they are pushing definitely for Melvin,” said Gibbons, stressing that he is in talks with GBP head Eric Gomez.
“If Pedro doesn’t get it (Collazo fight) we are looking at April 3rd at Pechanga (California),” he added.
Taduran and Jerusalem are in the mix but Collazo, holder of the World Boxing Association and World Boxing Organization ruler, is leaning towards doing a rematch with Jerusalem.
Almost three years ago, Collazo stopped Jerusalem and his team believe doing another fight with him makes a lot more sense given their shared history.
Jerusalem insists that be was not in perfect condition because he only arrived in America just 10 days before the bout.
Should they meet again, Jerusalem swears he won’t hand the WBC crown to the undefeated Collazo on a silver platter just like in May 2023.
As for Taduran, the Bicol-born southpaw is not letting up in his Las Vegas training, knowing it his responsibility to be ready at all times.
Last time he fought, Taduran outpointed compatriot Christian Balunan during the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Tnrila in Manila last October.