Bigger fights, purse planned for Nietes

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – Bigger fights are being lined up for WBO world junior flyweight king Donnie “Ahas” Nietes with another outing in the US in the pipeline and a possible co-headliner with Nonito Donaire Jr. in Dubai being considered.

“He (Nietes) wants the bigger fights. (We’re preparing a) much bigger event than the last time (last year during Nietes’ US debut),” said ALA Promotions CEO and president Michael Aldeguer.

Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino world champion, was defending the 108-lb belt against Mexican Juan Garcia at presstime.

Should he dispose of Garcia, Aldeguer said Nietes will be up for a third showdown with former champion Moises Fuentes of Mexico at Stubhub Center in Carson, California.

“(If Nietes wins against Garcia) Mandatory title defense is a done deal with Moises Fuentes,” said Aldeguer.

“We couldn’t come in agreement for them to come here and for Donnie to come to Mexico and so we felt it would be best for us to have it at Stubhub Center,” he added.

Nietes made his US debut last October in the same venue, where he beat Juan Alejo via unanimous decision.

But in the event Nietes lost to Garcia here, the 34-year-old fighter will get another quick crack at the Mexican.

“We have a rematch clause (in the contract with Garcia); the option is an immediate rematch on Sept. 24 (should Nietes loses),” said Aldeguer.

The ALA boss also said an explosive duel with WBO/WBA flyweight ruler Juan Estrada is being eyed for Nietes.

“We’re also looking to fight Juan Estrada, which HBO wants but nothing serious yet,” said Aldeguer.

He added that Nietes has been given the privilege “not to vacate (the WBO title) but will fight Estrada at 112 lbs.”

Nietes may also join the Dubai card WBO super bantam titlist Donaire is being eyed to banner. 

“He also wants to do Dubai later or early next year (with WBO super bantam titlist Donaire),” said Aldeguer.