Parra vows to end Nietes’ reign

PARAÑAQUE CITY, Philippines  — They considered themselves lucky for being able to fight against two of the big names in Philippine boxing, but Gilberto 'Parrita' Parra of Mexico and William Prado of Brazil yearn for something more.

They both want to make a name for themselves and that they will do everything they possibly could to pull off a major shocker come the much anticipated 'Pinoy Pride 30:D-Day' fightcard this Saturday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

 Parra (19-1, 17KOs), a certified knockout artist, will try to dethrone WBO light flyweight and RING champion Donnie 'Ahas' Nietes (34-1, 20KOs), while Prado will test former five-division world titlist Nonito 'Filipino Flash' Donaire (33-2, 21KOs) in a 12-round rumble for the vacant NABF super bantamweight crown.

"This is a golden opportunity for me to beat a great champion like him (Nietes)," said Parra during a press conference yesterday at the Solaire Resort and Casino. "I came here prepared and I don't want to waste this chance to not only be a champion, but also beating a legend like him."

Parra said it is not impossible for him to end Nietes' over seven-year reign. "Everything has its end and I feel I will be the one to do it," the confident Mexican added.

For his part, Prado believed that he has a big chance of handing Donaire his second straight loss. He knew that Donaire is seeking redemption after a heart-breaking sixth round knockout loss to Nicholas Walters, but the Brazilian will not let the Pinoy ring star to use him as a springboard to regain his lost glory.

"I know he is a five-division champion and I respect him, but this is big for me," said Prado, who has fought, albeit for a losing cause, against the undefeated WBA super bantamweight titlist Scott Quigg of Australia and former junior featherweight crown-holder Paulos Ambunda of Namibia.

 Donaire acknowledged Prado's talent and even praised the Brazilians ability, but the former IBF and WBA featherweight champion has no plans of letting the Brazilian beat him in his own turf.

"He is an excellent fighter and I know that there is a danger for me in this fight, but I already studied his style and I am ready for him," said Donaire.

In another featured bout of the slambang card co-presented by ALA Promotions and ABS-CBN Sports, ALA super bantamweight prospect ‘Prince’ Albert Pagara (22-0, 15KOs) will once again be tested against Mexican veteran Rodolfo ‘Fofo’ Hernandez (26-5, 24KOs) in a 12-round duel for the IBF Intercontinental title. (FREEMAN)