Nietes topbills Pinoy Pride 5

CEBU, Philippines - No doubt he has been one of the most successful boxers of his generation being the second longest reigning Filipino champion, and now WBO minimumweight king Donnie “Ahas” Nietes is setting his sights on his next goal – to become a multi-titled boxing champion.

The ALA Gym stalwart is ready for another big step in his career as he moves up from 105 lbs. to 108 lbs. or the light flyweight division following the steps of multi-titled Pinoy champs like Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire Jr.

 His journey for another world title belt will start this April 9, where he will be put to the test against Mexican Armando Vasquez in the main event of “Pinoy Pride 5: Battle of Champions” at De La Salle Coliseum in his hometown in Bacolod City.

“This will be a very good thing for Donnie,” said ALA Promotions president

Michael Aldeguer during the press conference held yesterday at Diamond Suites and Residences.

“We had a chance to talk to WBO president Paco Varcarcel and even he also said that Nietes really needs to move up to a higher division.”

In the event that he will get past Vasquez, Nietes will be fighting the winner of the April 30 rematch against Jesus Gelez and Ramon Garcia for the WBO interim title.

 Aldeguer also said that if this big fight materializes, he will do the best that he can that it will be bring here to the Philippines.

 The WBO world title is now currently held by Giovani Segura, but there is a possibility that will be vacated, since the Mexican is also planning to move up to a heavier division.

 The utility man turned world champion said that he has no problem and he feels comfortable in going up to a heavier division.

 “Mas na feel nako nga mikusug akong kumo tungod sa pagpadako ug timbang ug akong gi-develop nalang karon mao ang akong speed and combinations,” said Nietes.

 Under the guidance of head trainer Edito Villamor and conditioning coach Pio Solon, Nietes feels confident in winning his first assignment in the light flyweight division against Vasquez.

 Adding to his inspiration to win, Nietes feels the thrill in fighting in front of thousands of his hometown fans in Bacolod after successfully defending his

minimumweight title several times in Mexico for the past years.

“Bisag diri awayon sa Pilipinas o sa Mexico wala may kalainan, pero mas aduna lay excitement karon kay adto sa Bacolod ko mo-away nga segurado nga ilang ikalipay,” added Nietes. (FREEMAN)