The Boxing Diary: Donnie Nietes

Showing posts with label Donnie Nietes. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Donnie Nietes decisions Kazuto Ioka, becomes 4-division champion

Donnie Nietes joined the league of champions who were able to capture championships in four different weight classes after winning the super flyweight title against Kazuto Ioka at the Wynn Palace Cotai, Macao on New Year's eve.

Nietes joined fellow Filipino champions Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire in the list of 4-division champions or more.

Nietes (42-1-5, 23 KOs), became champion at the minimum weight (105 pounds limit), light flyweight (108 pounds limit), flyweight (112 pounds limit and at super flyweight (115 pounds limit).

“I’m really happy that I got my four-division world championship this New Year. I showcased the fans a great fight and I am so thankful that they liked my performance,” said Nietes.

It was a tough fight that no one seemed to back up. But it looks to me that no one also would like to press hard out of respect with each other.

Nietes was there in the pocket the entire fight waiting for Ioka to press harder. He was able to avoid Ioka's body shots and came back with a counter uppercut.

“His punches were not solid and it seemed he’s afraid to attack me. I was able to evade his body shots and hit him with uppercuts as he got closer so he changed his style,” he said.

Donnie Nietes defends title in his hometown against Raul Garcia

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Previews

Donnie Nietes, the man they called "Ahas" will showcase his poisonous sting in front of friendlies against Raul Garcia at the University of St. La Salle Coliseum, in Bacolod City, Philippines.

Nietes (37-1-4, 21 KOs) is the longest Filipino world champion is seeking to continue his winning streak in the quest for global recognition he long deserved. Although a champion since 2007, the Bacolod native is still unrecognized on the international stage. In fact, Nietes, 34, had a debut fight in the US only in his last fight on 17th October 2015 at the StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

If Nietes get past Garcia, a possible US fight could happen next. His handlers are gunning for a flyweight world championship match against Roman Gonzalez. He's been at a 108-pound division for a long time. A move at flyweight is too good for him. And why not move and fight the best in the division, the best pound-for-pound. He's not getting any younger.

Well, that of course if he gets past Raul Garcia.

Raul Garcia (38-3-1, 23 KOs) is a man on a mission. He came all the way to Mexico to Nietes' home turf to exact revenge. Nietes defeated Raul's twin brother Ramon Garcia in 2011.

However, according to Nietes, Raul has an identical style with his twin brother.

“His style of fighting is the same as his twin. They have the same offense. The movement of Raul Garcia is the same as Ramon Garcia also. That’s why it’s very familiar to me,” says Nietes as per Ryan Songalia of Rappler.

Nietes won via unanimous decision against Ramon. But it is exciting to see how much improvement Raul would incorporate in his game plan against Nietes with the help of his twin brother.

The fight can be seen on ABS-CBN's Sky Cable, Philippines, pay-per-view, and Live Stream on TFC.tv through subscription.

This will be tonight folks, Saturday, May 28 starting at 6 a.m. E.T. (6 p.m. Manila time).

Erik Morales to train Moises Fuentes against Donnie Nietes

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Erik Morales

Instead of signing Mexican great Marco Antonio Barrera as his manager and trainer, Moises Fuentes (23-2, 12 KO) signed another Mexican great in Erik "El Terrible" Morales to his team to handle the job.

Morales will be training Fuentes, if the fight pushes through, against longest-reigning Filipino boxing champion Donnie Nietes in a trilogy at the Cebu City Sports Complex.

According to Mike Angel Lopez of Philboxing.com, "Fuentes who is under the promotional banner of Zanfer Promotions, has dropped Marco Antonio Barerra as his manager and trainer and has signed with Erik Morales."

It was earlier reported that Nietes will face Fuentes for the third time instead of fighting someone else as the co-featured bout of Nonito Donaire title defense in Manila on April 23. Instead, Nietes will headline a separate fight card in Cebu.

Both Morales and Barrera are special in the heart of Filipinos as they both had thrilling battles with Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.

Donaire, Nietes, Tabuena share PSA's "Athlete of the Year" award

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Miguel Tabuena

Battle-tested boxing champion Nonito Donaire will be named, for the fourth time, as Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) "Athlete of the Year" along with longest-reigning Filipino boxing champion Donnie Nietes and golfer Miguel Tabuena.

The trio will be honored during its Annual Awards Night on Feb. 13 to be held at One Esplanade in Pasay City.

Nonito Donaire

"That's awesome" was Donaire's reaction when he learned about the award according to Ronnie Natanielz. After his knockout defeat against Nicholas Walters at featherweight in 2014, Donaire registered three successive victories going back down to the 122-pound division in 2015. He demolished William Prado in two rounds in March 2015 at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila, which I was able to watch live at ringside. In July 2015, Donaire duplicated his performance wiping out Anthony Settoul in Cotai Arena. Donaire topped his performance in 2015 with a bruising 12-round unanimous decision victory over tough-as-nails Mexican banger Cesar Juarez.

Donaire got the prestigious award first in 2007, and then again in 2011 and 2012.

Donaire was unable to attend the awards night in 2011 and 2012 causing 2012 PSA president Rey Bancod disgust about Donaire's no-show. In 2012, Donaire was in deep training in the US for his fight against slick boxer Guillermo Rigondeux, which he lost via decision. This time, I'm hoping Donaire would be available as he will be in Manila for his training for a fight in April.

Donnie Nietes

Picking Nietes to share the "Athlete of the Year" award is a no-brainer. He's was defeated only once in his career. He broke the record of Gabriel "Flash" Elorde, one of the greatest Filipino boxers, as the longest-reigning Filipino champion. He will be facing Moises Fuentes in a rubber match for his next title defense.

Miguel Tabuena

Tabuena defeated Scott Barr of Australia to win his first-ever Philippine Open championship. The 22-year-old golfer highlighted his performance by winning the Asian Tour.

PSA president Rey Mallari said Donaire, Nietes, and Tabuena “again showed and proved to the world what Filipino athletes are made of as proof of their triumph and success in their respective fields last year. As the country’s sources of pride, all three are truly deserving of the Athlete of the Year honor.”

Donnie Nietes to defend title against Fuentes in a trilogy

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Moises Fuentes

Looks like another tough title defense for the veteran Filipino champion.

Longest reigning Filipino champion Donnie Ahas Nietes will be facing again Moises Fuentes for his title defense this coming April in Cebu City Sports Complex.

Nietes first fought Fuentes to a majority draw in 2013 at the Cebu City Waterfront Hotel & Casino. In a rubber match in 2014, Nietes knocked out Fuentes in Round 9.

It was a back-and-forth action prior to the knockout. But in Round 9, Nietes landed a left and right combination that forced Fuentes to take a knee. Nietes jumped in and fired shots on Fuentes who was already down on the floor. The referee initiated the mandatory count, and Fuentes managed to get up to continue the fight. But instead of resuming the fight, the referee deducted a point on Nietes for throwing punches on Fuentes while still on the floor.

Fuentes took a breather for the deduction, and I thought he can survive the round as he was able to regain his footing. But Nietes was so patient on his attack as Fuentes tried to come back. A counter right hand hurt and sent down again Fuentes to the floor that opted the referee to waive the off without initiating the mandatory count.

This could be a very exciting match-up as both guys really know each other for 21 rounds. The first bell is round 22. For sure the fighters will immediately pick up what they left in Round 9 of their rematch in 2014.

Pinoy Pride 33: Pinoy boxers’ moment to shine

Rey Tecson Albert Pagara , Donnie Nietes

Donnie Nietes is the longest-reigning Filipino boxing champion spanning 8 years. But that span of time being a champion he never had a fight in the US. A fight in the US is an ultimate dream of a non-US-resident professional boxer. In the US most big-time boxing card happens.

Not only Nietes will fight first time in the US. Pagara brothers Jason and Albert, and Mark Magsayo will also debut on US soil. They will fight separate opponents.

Nietes (36-1-4, 21Kos) will headline Pinoy Pride 33 versus Mexican Juan Alejo. Although Mexico shares a border with the US, it's also Alejo’s (21-3, 13KOs) first fight in the US. What a coincidence!

Undefeated Albert Pagara (24-0-0, 17 KOs) faces KO artist William Gonzalez (27-5, 23 KOs) of Nicaragua. They will battle for Pagara’s intercontinental junior featherweight title. While his brother Jason will face Santos Benavides for 10 rounds or less in a non-title fight.

ALA Promotions in association with ABS-CBN Sports promotes Pinoy Pride 33. It's also ALA promotions' and ABS-CBN Sports' first time to stage a fight card in the US.

Michael Aldequer's successful Pinoy Pride series originates in Cebu, Philippines. He found tremendous success in the Philippines and in the middle east. Particularly Dubai.

With so much of first time and outcome might be uncertain. But what is certain is that: Pinoy boxers will have the opportunity to showcase their talent in the US boxing ring.

I expect Pinoy boxers to give their very best. This fight will be their ticket to better opportunities and bigger paydays.

Nietes talked about betting pound-for-pound new kingpin Roman Gonzalez if given a chance. So, Nietes need not only win but should look impressive. And get past Alejo for a possible fight with Roman. Gonzalez will also fight on the same night at a different venue. He will face Filipino-American Brian Viloria.

But well, who knows if Viloria bets Roman, it might set up a fight with Nietes (could be unlikely even if Viloria wins as this two sparred in preparation for their separate opponents). Just exploring possibilities here...

For Albert and Jason Pagara, and Mark Magsayo, it is their time to impress the American fans. If they will come out victorious in a spectacular manner; big fights await.

Stakes are really high for this card! Don't miss it!

Donnie Nietes retains light flyweight title

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Francisco Rodriquez Jr.

[caption id="attachment_5861" align="alignleft" width="300"]

Photo: Dong Secuya[/caption]

Cebu City, Philippines - The longest reigning Filipino champion and the lone champion from the Philippines Donnie Nietes retained his light flyweight title by outpointing the 22-year old mandatory challenger Mexican Francisco Rodriguez Jr. on Saturday night at the Waterfront Hotel & Casino, Cebu City.

Nietes dominated Rodriquez in a tactical fight and won via unanimous decision. Two judges had it for Nietes in a wide margin: Robert Hecko 119-109 and Lisa Giampa 118-110, while judge Benoit Roussel had it little bit closer at 115-113.

Nietes, 33, now improves his record to 36 wins, with 21 wins by way of knockout, 1 defeat, and 4 draws. Rodriguez on the other hand falls to 17 wins, 3 defeats and a draw.

With the win Nietes, defended his championship for nearly eight years since winning the minimum weight championship in 2007 and the longest reigning Filipino champion in Philippine boxing history.

What's next for Donnie Nietes

Nietes could probably move up to the talent packed 112 pound division with Roman Gonzalez sitting at the top of the division with other titlist Juan Francisco Estrada (43-0, 37 KOs) , Amnat Ruenroeng (16-0, 5 KOs), who recently successfully defended title against Jhonriel Casimero (21-3, 13 KOs), Moruti Mthalane (31-2, 20 KO's) and Brian Viloria (35-4, 21 KOs).

Estrada would be an "easy fight" says Villamor, Donnie Nietes trainer.

The Nietes-Rodriguez match-up is the 31st edition of the successful ALA's Pinoy Pride Series.

The next installment could be in Dubai as the advertisement for a card dubbed "Duel in Dubai II" has been airing on ABS-CBN's The Filipino Channel (TFC) in the Middle East.

"D-Day" Diary Part II

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Features

[caption id="attachment_5768" align="alignnone" width="3264"]

Filipino light flyweight champion Donnie Nietes on the scales during the D-Day Official weigh-in[/caption]

D-Day official weigh-in

March 17 @ 10:00 a.m. - I went out of Manila International Airport terminal III. I still have an hour before the official weigh-in starts. I took a bus to Taft Avenue to catch a train (LRT) to Cubao station. From Cubao, it's walking distance to the weigh-in venue.

When I was inside the bus, sitting at the back sit a Chinese young lady sits beside me. She's around in her mid 20s, fair complexion, slim and pretty. She's wearing a simple blouse and skirt above the knee. A big round brown hat sits on her lap. She seemed alone.

"Hi how are you?" I tried to open up a conversation. "Hello!" her short reply to me.

I ask her where she's going and she said she wanted to buy some post stamp as a souvenir. She's in her last day as a tourist. Her flight will be tonight. She said she will be going to Mall of Asia, which is in the opposite direction. I give her the right direction how to go to MOA.

We disembarked from the bus together and we parted ways. I stopped for a while in a corner where you can find the famous Manila street vendors selling stuffs. I bought few sticks of cigarette, lighted one smoke for few minutes. Few minutes later, I started climbing the stairs leading to the LRT ticket booth, when I saw her moving in the same direction.

"Hey! You're supposed to take a bus at the other side of the highway going to MOA?" I told her.

She looks confused. I bought ticket for two to Cubao and told her to come with me and buy those post stamps from there. I wanted to help her. Filipinos are very hospitable people. But there are few who take advantage to some foreigners that look uncertain of their direction and alone. So I offered my help. I told her to be careful.

Although as a Filipino I don't like the way how the Chinese behaving the disputed Spratly Islands but I didn't hesitate to help her. I've been in foreign lands too and I know the risk being lost in a metropolis.

We boarded the train together and we are on our way to the weigh-in venue. While on the train, I told her stories about boxing. I asked her if she known Zou Shiming... to my surprise she said "I don't know him". I thought Shiming is so huge in China. But not all people in China know him, or maybe she just doesn't care about boxing at all.

@ 11:00 a.m. - we are heading to the Araneta Coliseum and the weigh-in already started. I told her that I can't be with her around because I will be covering the weigh-in. I showed her the mall complex. I also showed her the direction how to get back to the airport too. Before that, we had lunch together at Jollibee Farmers Plaza. She left and said thank you several times. I reminded her to take care. I'm happy that in my little way I helped her. I watch her walked away till I lost sight of her. Then, I shifted my sight to the weigh-in. This is it!

"Can I come inside" I told to one of the security guard that secures the perimeter of "D-Day" boxing weigh-in. I've got no clear answer. Although, I'm hesitant to come in, you know... it's my first time, but I came in anyway.

I expected a huge crowd at the weigh-in. Boxing took a huge leap to prominence in the Philippines because of Pacquiao's accomplishments. If it was Pacquiao's weigh-in regardless of opponent, there must be massive crowd. But local fighters other than Pacquiao, even if the fight is held in the country's capital, don't have the massive support from Filipinos. Boxing is just secondary to basketball in the Philippines.

The venue of the weigh-in was the historic Araneta Coliseum. The venue of one the greatest fight in the sport of boxing: The "Thrila in Manila" in 1978, the final battle between Mohammad Ali and Joe Frazier. The weigh-in was situated near the Araneta Coliseum green entrance.

I took my camera and started taking pictures at the undercard fighters taking their turn at the weighing scale.

Moments later, Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire's name was called by respected boxing analyst and journalist, Ronnie Natanielsz. Nonito came out. The look of his face showed he's so damn serious and ready to rumble. Moving back to 122 pound, Donaire's physique looked so strong. The baby fats hanging around his waist during the Nicholas Walters weigh-in can't be seen on Donaire's super bantamweight frame.

William Prado, Donaire's opponent, who tipped the scales earlier, stood beside Donaire for the photo-ops. Then I experience watching for the first time fighters doing the "face-off" live in front of me. It was a wonderful feeling. I can feel the intensity and tension. I can feel Donaire's desire to win this fight. He was knockout by Nicholas Walters in his previous fight. This time he's all business. I can see it in his blazing eyes. You can view the photos that I took during the weigh-in by clicking the link here: http://theboxingdiary.com/2015/03/pinoy-pride-30-weigh-in-photos.html

Next on the scale are the main event fighters. Nathanielzs called Gilberto Parra onto the scales and then Donnie Nietes followed. Both men were right in the light flyweight limit 108 lbs. They looked strong and ready to rumble. Nietes really looks comfortable at the weight although he's been fighting at 108 lbs for several years and I heard few times that he's moving up to flyweight.

Parra also seemed comfortable at the weight but looked a little bit pale. His 18 wins although most of them were contested at the light flyweight limit Parra did weighed several pounds over in few fights. He even fought at flyweight in his fifth professional fight weighing in 112.5 lbs in the official weigh-in. But there's no serious indication that he struggled to make weight.

So, without any weight issues to all fighters, I'm so excited for fight night.

Read "D-Day" Diary Part I - http://theboxingdiary.com/2015/07/d-day-diary.html

'D-Day' Diary

Rey Tecson Boxing Diary , Donnie Nietes

[caption id="attachment_5755" align="alignnone" width="3264"]

Early fans queue at the historic Araneta Coliseum green entrance[/caption]

After four years of writing (or if you like me to call it blogging, so be it) about the sport of boxing, I have been given the opportunity to cover live boxing event. As a boxing fan, as all of you guys knew, I've been covering the sport through TV and live streaming since 2011. And I posts fight recaps, preview and predictions on every fight I've cover on this blog.

I went for a vacation to the Philippines last March 12. The "D-day" boxing event, ALA's "Pinoy Pride" 30^th edition, featuring longest reigning Filipino boxing champion Donnie "Ahas" Nietes, who will be defending his title against Francisco Rodriquez this Saturday, and co-featured Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire vs. William Prado. The date of this spectacular boxing card coincided with the date of my vacation.

The fight happened last March 18 and my flight to Philippines was on March 12. I've got media accreditation with the guidance of respected Philippine Star journalist Abac Cordero. Since this is my first time, I wrote a diary of this wonderful experience. First time experience is memorable and unforgettable. Although this card, of course not the biggest fight that happened in the Philippines, but I have this card third in my list; next to "Thrila in Manila" and Pacquiao-Mira. It's still good to be well-documented. So here’s it is, my diary of "D-day" boxing card in Manila.

The smooth travel to the venue

March 17 @ 5:00 a.m. - It was a cold Friday morning. The sun did not shine yet. But I expect another humid Philippine hot summer as soon as the sun shines. My DSLR camera, laptop, phone, pocket WiFi were all packed inside a small backpack.

I'm all set to catch my 7:55 a.m. domestic flight from Ozamiz City to Manila. For those who don't know yet, yours truly is residing in Baroy, Lanao del Norte, in Mindanao. So I need to travel for 45 minutes via plane to reach Manila.

7:00 a.m. - I reach Ozamiz airport just in time. Cebu Pacific Air flight from Manila just touchdown when I've got my backpack checked. It's the same plane that will take me to Manila. Although Cebu Pac is notorious for their delayed flights. Many complained their flights were delayed for hours and at times flights were completely cancelled without proper passenger guidance. But in fairness to Cebu Pac, all my flying experience with them were on time -- including international flights. My experience with Cebu Pac's international and local flights can be read here.

When I got inside the boarding lounge, most of the passengers were all in. Few minutes later, passengers from Manila have disembarked from the plane. After another 45 minutes, the airline announce for boarding. Since I arrived late, I did not bother to compete with other fellow passengers rushing to the queue to board the plane. I'm the last passenger who entered the plane.

7:55 a.m. - "All flight crew prepare for take off", says the pilot. I fastened my set belt and closed my eyes. I need to catch some sleep because it's gonna be a long day ahead in Manila for "D-Day" weigh-in that will takes place at 11:00 a.m. at the Araneta Coliseum green entrance and that will be on my next post that can be found here - http://theboxingdiary.com/2015/07/d-day-diary-part-ii.html

Pinoy Pride 31 weights: Nietes, Rodriguez 108 lbs

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Francisco Rodriquez Jr.

Longest reigning Filipino champion Donnie "Ahas" Nietes and his Mexican challenger Francisco Rodriguez Jr. both weighed in at the light flyweight limit at 108 pounds during Friday's official weigh-in held at the activity center of SM City Cebu.

Nietes will be defending his light flyweight title this Saturday for the seventh time at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

Nietes looked very strong without any indication of weight struggle despite fighting at light flyweight all these years. Rodriquez's cheeks although deeply set had no problem making the weight despite plans of moving up in weight.

Win or lose, I believed that both fighters will be moving up in weight in their next fight to join the mix of a very loaded flyweight division championed by pound-for-pound top two, Roman Gonzalez.

Pinoy Pride 30 fight photos

Rey Tecson Albert Pagara , Donnie Nietes

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Pinoy Pride 30 results: Nietes, Donaire, Pagara win by stoppage

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Gilberto Parra

[caption id="attachment_5356" align="alignright" width="2256"]

Donnie Nietes retains junior flyweight title / Photo: Retech Son[/caption]

Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, (35-1-4, 21 KO’s), longest reigning Filipino champion, defended his junior flyweight title against Mexican Gilberto Parra. The Mexican was stop after Round 9. Parra (19-3, 17 KO's) was not allowed to answer the bell to begin Round 10. He suffered a nasty cut below his left eye from a Nietes’ solid right hand.

Upon the advice of ringside physician, referee Jack Reiss stopped the contest.

Before the stoppage, Nietes dropped Parra in Round 8. He landed a hard right to the head that sent Parra down. The crafty Mexican was able to beat the count and continue with wobbled legs. He’s hanging on to dear life until the end of Round 8, as Nietes was so determine to finish the challenger.

But Parra to his credit, used lateral movements, reach advantage and evaded finishing blows from the champion.

During the post-fight conference, ALA boss Michael Aldequer says that Donnie Nietes will face Francisco Rodriquez on July 4 in Cebu. And already had preliminary talks with Zanfer Promotions about an Estrada fight.

[caption id="attachment_5358" align="alignnone" width="2256"]

Nonito Donaire pummels over-matched William Prado of Brazil, as referee Bruce Mc Tavish getting ready to step in to halt the contest. Photo: Retech Son[/caption]

Nonito Donaire scores an impressive TKO victory over William Prado

In the co-feature bout of the night, Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire (34-3, 21 KO’s) scored a second round knockout victory over William Prado (22-4-1, 15 KO’s) of Brazil. In the first round, it is obvious Prado had no match with Donaire’s fire power. Although Prado was moving forward to Donaire, but was not throwing any significant punches.

In Round 2, Donaire opened up with series of haymakers from his vaunted left hook. He wobbled Prado and didn’t waste time to finish the business at hand. He pummeled Prado to the ropes until referee Bruce Mc Tavish stepped in to save Prado from further damage.

Donaire, decided to move back down in weight to 122 pounds for this fight after a knockout defeat over much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters at featherweight.

With the win, Donaire aims another title fight before the year ends at 122 -- a division whom he dominated in 2012 and named fighter of the year, winning all four fights in the same year.
In an interview, Donaire called out Leo Santa. And also said he's open for a rematch with master tactician Guillermo Rigondeaux.

“I’m all in” says Nonito Donaire when ask about a possible rematch with 122 pound division champion--Guillermo Rigondeaux or a showdown with fast-rising star Leo Santa Cruz.

Rigondeaux is the 122 pound world champion according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.

Rigondeaux defeated Donaire when they first met in April 2013.

[caption id="attachment_5359" align="alignright" width="2256"]

Albert Pagara connects a jab to Rodolfo Hernandez. Photo: Retech Son[/caption]

Albert Pagara retires Rodolfo Hernandez after Round 4

Albert Pagara (23-0, 16 KO’s) maintained unbeaten record by preventing Rodolfo Hernandez (26-6-1, 24 KO’s) to leave his corner to start the fifth stanza. According to Hernandez's corner, he injured his hand and is unable to continue.

Pagara has superior fire power over the Mexican who was knockdown in the first round.

According to Aldequer, Pagara will begin training in the States in preparation for a fight in Dubai on June 12 against an opponent yet to be named.

Pinoy Pride weights 30: Nietes 108, Donaire 122, Pagara 122

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , News

Longest reigning Filipino champion Donnie Nietes and his opponent Parra both came in at the junior flyweight limit at 108 pounds. Nietes will headline the 30th edition of the very successful Pinoy Pride series.

In the co-feature, multi-division world titlist Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire and Brazil’s William Prado both came in at 122 lbs for their NABF super bantamweight bout. It was reported earlier that Donaire had problem cutting down in weight. But on Friday at the weigh-in at historic Araneta coliseum (now Smart Araneta) had no problems making the contractual weight.

“Prince” Albert Pagara also came in at 122 lbs while his opponent Mexican Rodolfo Hernandez weighed 121 lbs. Pagara’s will defend his IBF Inter-continental title.

Pinoy Pride 30: Nietes, Donaire, Pagara to host Media Workout

Rey Tecson Albert Pagara , Donnie Nietes

Pinoy Pride 30 fighters will host media workout on March 24 at the ALA Gym, Balete Drive. Longest reigning Filipino champion Donnie "Ahas" Nietes, 2012 FOTY Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire and unbeaten prospect Albert Pagara will host media workout. The fighters will showcase what they've got so far during several weeks of training.

Pinoy Pride 30, dubbed "D-Day" will be on Saturday night at the Smart Araneta, Cubao, Quezon City.

Nietes (34-1-4, 20 KO's) will headline the event. He will defend his WBO light flyweight title against Mexico's Gilberto Parra. The Mexican has an impressive record of 19 wins, 17 by way of knockout, with only two defeats.

Donaire (33-3, 21 KO's) will be back in action. And he will co-feature the event against Brazil’s William Prado who has 22 wins, four defeats and a draw. Donaire will move back down to 122 pound division following his unsuccessful ran at 126 pound division.

Although struggling at featherweight, Donaire had two wins. He won a title from Simpewe Vetyeka. And a knockout victory over former rival Vic Darchinyan while behind the scorecards.

But on Donaire’s third try at featherweight, he was knocked out by a much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters. After the defeat, he decided to move back down to junior featherweight.

Young prospect, Albert Pagara (22-0, 15 KO's) faces knockout artist, Mexico's Rodolfo Hernandez (26-5-1, 24 KO's). The IBF Inter-continental super bantamweight title will be on the line. I expect a non-stop action till one will drop in this fight. It might steal the show. Don't miss it.

Donaire struggles to make weight?

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Features

Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino champion, will headline the popular Pinoy Pride series in its 30th installment. Nonito “The Filipino Flash" Donaire will co-featured the event against William Prado of Brazil. This will be Nietes’ first fight, after he became the longest reining Filipino champion. He surpassed the record of the great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.

I’m in my native Philippines during the fight for a vacation. The fight penciled on 28th March at the famous Smart Araneta (formerly Araneta Coliseum, the venue of “Thrila in Manila” Ali-Fraser III). I might be present to cover the event for SPB. I will run a live blog for this event on SPB and on Twitter. Make sure to follow me on twitter @RetechSon for live updates, as Pinoy Pride 30 unfolds.

Nietes (34-1-4, 20 KO’s will be coming from fresh victory over Carlos Velarde in November last year. He then, surpassed Elorde’s record in January 2015 as the longest reigning Filipino champion. He will be defending his light flyweight title against Gilberto Parra. Sonora, Mexico’s Parra had a impressive record. He won 17 by way of knockouts out of his 19 victories.

Meanwhile, Donaire (33- 3, 21 KO's) will move back down to 122 pound division for Prado. Although it's a ten round fight, but the winner will take home the vacant North American Boxing Federation (NABF) 122 pound title. Donaire’s in a must-win situation, to rebound from a rough 2014 campaign. He was knocked out in the sixth round by the much bigger Nicholas Walters defending his featherweight title.

After the fight with Walters, Donaire admitted that his opponent was way stronger and much bigger than him. Donaire used to fight shorter opponents. This is because of his height advantage over previous opponents at the lower weight classes. Although this time, he will move back down to 122 pound, report from Ronnie Natanielsz says that Donaire “has problems making the weight”. Donaire reportedly is still around 132 pounds. That’s two weight classes higher than 122 pounds, less than 10 days before the fight.

With the above report I’m excited to find out if Donaire can still make the 122 pound division-limit, where he’s so successful. He was the consensus “2012 Fighter of the Year”, winning all four fights in the same division in 2012. Otherwise, if he struggled to make weight, I think he might go back up to featherweight. He only fought three times at the featherweight. And I believed few more fights there he will be comfortable and can deal with the legit feathers.

Unbeaten prospect, Albert Pagara will be seen in action also.

Pinoy Pride 28 results: Nietes retains title

Rey Tecson Carlos Velarde , Donnie Nietes

Donnie Nietes retains his WBO light flyweight title and becomes "The longest reigning Filipino champion", breaking the record of the Gabriel "Flash" Elorde in the coming new year. The great Elorde reigned for seven years and three months from 1960 to 1967.

Neites defeated his challenger, Carlos Velarde of Sinaloa, Mexico. The 24 year old Velarde suffered a nasty cut above the left eye. The cut happened in the seventh round. He complained while in the corner during the break; that it was a head-butt that caused the cut.

If the fight will be stopped, the outcome will not be favorable for Velarde, even if it's coming from accidental head-butt. He's clearly behind on the scorecards.

However, Velarde, now dropped to 26-4-1, 14 KO's, decided to pull his own plug and quit after the seventh round. Nietes won via RTD after Round 7.

Neites, now improved to 34-1-4 and 20 wins by way of stoppage, plans to move up in weight (probably in the flyweight division) for his next fight. A division reigned by pound-for-pound fighter Roman Gonzalez of Nicaragua.

It’s actually a talent-packed division, wherein Juan Francisco Estrada, Akira Yaegashi, Amnat Ruenroeng, Moruti Mthalene and Brian Viloria were ranked top five contenders according to the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.

But after the fight, Aldequer thinks that Nietes is "more comfortable" at 108.

Right now I think he’s more comfortable at 108 so we’ll stick to 108. The plan is really to go to 112” said Aldegeur.

Pinoy Pride 28 weigths: Nietes 107.5, Velarde 108

Rey Tecson Carlos Velarde , Donnie Nietes

Defending champion Donnie Nietes and his opponent Carlos Velarde made weight at the division 108 pound limit. Nietes hit the scale half pound short at 107.5 pounds, while Velarde tipped in at exactly 108 pounds. The official weigh-in was held at Robinson's Fuete in Cebu City on Friday.

On Saturday night at the Cebu City Waterfront Hotel & Casino, Nietes (33-1-4, 19 KO's) has the opportunity to break the record of Gabriel "Flash" Elorde, as the longest reigning Filipino champion.

Undercard weigh-in results:

Milan “El Metodico” Melindo – 107.5 lbs vs Saul “Baby” Juarez of Mexico – 107 lbs.

'Prince' Albert Pagara - 122 lbs. vs Raul Hirales - 122 lbs.

Francisco Rodriguez - 113 lbs vs Jomar Fajardo who weighed - 112 lbs.

Merlito Sabillo - 107 lbs vs Faris Nenggo - 107lbs.

AJ Banal - 124.5 lbs vs Maxsaisai Sithsaithong - 125lbs.

Mark Magsayo - 126 lbs. vs Moon-Sun Jung 125.5 lbs.

Polid Banal - 116 lbs. vs Ritchen Rosales - 113.5 lbs.

Virgel Vitor - 116.5 lbs. vs Jovane Abejero 123.5 lbs.

Gerard Suico - 111 lbs. vs Fritz Cabilla - 110 lbs.

Donnie Nietes has the chance to break Gabriel "Flash" Elorde's record

Rey Tecson Carlos Velarde , Donnie Nietes

Donnie "Ahas" Nietes (33-1-4, 19 KO's) has the opportunity to re-write history books, if he will win against Mexican Carlos Velarde on November 15. Nietes-Velarde is the main event of Pinoy Pride 28 edition at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

Granted Nietes passes the test Velarde brings inside the squared circle; Neites will become the longest reigning Filipino world champion of all time.

The late great Gabriel "Flash" Elorde currently held this record. He was the longest reigning world junior lightweight champion (seven years and three months) from 1960 to 1967. He defended the crown 10 times.

The 32 year old Neites reigned as world champion from 2007 until now. He first won the minimumweight title in September 2007 and currently the light flyweight champion.

The 24 year old Velarde has a record of 26 wins -- 14 by way of stoppage, three defeats and a draw.

Also in action

“Prince” Albert Pagara vs. Raul Hirales of Mexico.

Milan ‘El Metodico’ Melindo vs. Saul Juarez of Mexico.

Merlito ‘Tiger’ Sabillo vs. Indonesian Farris Nenggo.

AJ “Bazooka” Banal vs Thai Maxsaisai Sithsaithong.

Mark “Magnifico’ Magsayo vs South Korean Moon-Sun Jung.

Pinoy Pride 25: Nietes stops Fuentes, retains title

Rey Tecson Donnie Nietes , Milan Melindo

[caption id="attachment_2583" align="alignnone" width="738"]

Pinoy Pride 25: Nietes stops Fuentes, retains world title

Photo: Dong Secuya/Philboxing.com[/caption]

Donnie "Ahas" Nietes said that there will be "no draw" in his rematch with Mexican Moises Fuentes at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay City, Philippines. And he delivered.

Nietes who trains from ALA Boxing stable stops Fuentes in round 9 and retains his WBO light flyweight title. He drops Fuentes twice in round 9 before landing a cracking overhand right that put his challenger down. Referee Robert Byrd didn't bother to count and immediately waives it of as Fuentes is in no position to continue. The official time of the stoppage: 2:56 in round 9.

Nietes, now improved his record to 33 wins, 19 by way of stoppage, 1 loss and 4 draws started the fight well, boxing and moving around, landing the cleaner shots. Fuentes on the other end started slowly as usual but pressing forward targeting the champion's body.

In the second round, Fuentes, now dropped to 19 wins, 10 by way of stoppage, 2 losses, and 1 draw, stepped up the pace and continue to press forward, catching Nietes to the body when Nietes crouch and spin away from him. In the third round, Nietes hurt Fuentes with a body shot that stunned the challenger momentarily on his track.

In the seventh round, Nietes landed clean combinations that wobbled Fuentes, but unable to finished as the hard hitting challenger from Mexico tried to hold on.

In the eighth round both fighters slowed down a bit -- especially Nietes -- who looks tired and seemed he punch-out in the previous round.

Stamina has been a problem for Nietes in the past.

However, in the ninth round Nietes dropped Fuentes and hit him while on the floor, resulting to a point deduction. The fight continued. Nietes again sent Fuentes to the floor with a couple of body and head shots. Fuentes managed to survive the count but still too shaky. Nietes, although sensing a knockout win, didn't rush things up. He waited and unleashed a well-timed finishing touch -- a cracking overhand right -- that landed clean on Fuentes left face.

With the win, Nietes registered his 21st win in 25 bouts, without defeat, and only 4 draws since losing a split decision against Angky Angkotta in 2004. This is also Nietes second straight victory via stoppage.

Milan Melindo UD12 Martin Tecuapetla

In the supporting main event, Milan Melindo (31-1, 12 KO's) showcased yet another methodical beat down against Martin Tecuapetla (11-6-2, 8 KO's) of Mexico in over 12 rounds of boxing spectacle. Variety of punches, from jab, uppercuts and hooks were on display. The left hook followed by uppercut combination find its home most of the time on Tecuapetla's head. Melindo out-classed the extremely tough challenger that never stops coming forward. Melindo was sweeping rounds from the opening round until round 8 on my scorecards.

In round 9, Melindo was deducted for a low blow. After the deduction, Melindo showed signs of fatigue -- slowed down drastically -- and was breathing heavily. In round 10, Tecuapetla continue to press forward against a now more stationary champion. But Melindo was able to defend effectively and occasionally catching Tecuapetla with left and right counters.

In round 11, Melindo executes the final push landing beautiful counters. In the final round, Melindo is well ahead in my scorecards. I have him winning 8 rounds against 4. The official scores were 114-114,116-112 and 115-113. The draw scored by Filipino judge Zalven Lagumbay doesn't make sense to me. At worse, the score could be 7 rounds against 5 on Melindo's favor, but a tie -- no way.

Rey Bautista UD10 Sergio Villanueva

Meanwhile, Rey "BoomBoom" Bautista (35-3, 25 KO') scored a unanimous victory against Sergio Villanueva (26-4-2, 13 KO's) also from Mexico, in his ring return after more than one year of inactivity. This is Bautista's debut as a junior lightweight.

Bautista who promised to deliver a showing did just enough to get the judges nod to the tune of 97-93, 96-94 and 96-94. However, it's a good performance for Bautista, although, far from what I expected from him.

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Donnie Nietes, the man they called "Ahas" will showcase his poisonous sting in front of friendlies against Raul Garcia at the University of St. La Salle Coliseum, in Bacolod City, Philippines.

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Monday, January 11, 2016

Nonito Donaire

Donnie Nietes

Miguel Tabuena

Saturday, January 9, 2016

Friday, October 16, 2015

Saturday, July 11, 2015

What's next for Donnie Nietes

Friday, July 10, 2015

D-Day official weigh-in

The smooth travel to the venue

Saturday, March 28, 2015

Nonito Donaire scores an impressive TKO victory over William Prado

Albert Pagara retires Rodolfo Hernandez after Round 4

Friday, March 27, 2015

Monday, March 23, 2015

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Friday, November 14, 2014

Undercard weigh-in results:

Friday, October 31, 2014

Also in action

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Milan Melindo UD12 Martin Tecuapetla

Rey Bautista UD10 Sergio Villanueva

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