But the South African impressed with a fearless performance on the 50th anniversary of the “Thrilla in Manila.” Jerusalem edged it 115–113, 115–113, and 116–112, though many felt Kuse’s early aggression made it closer than the scorecards showed.

Securing world title unifications must be the priority for Jerusalem in 2026, potentially an all-Filipino fight with IBF beltholder Pedro Taduran  next after his own points win over a courageous Christian Balunan effort a few days prior to headline the first of two Thrilla In Manila II shows at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila, Philippines.

–SABC–