THE time has come for long-time World Boxing Organization champion (WBO) and longest-reigning Filipino titlist Donnie ?Ahas? Nietes to go up to 112 pounds (flyweight division) in his September 24 fight in the United States.
The 34-year-old Nietes (38 wins, a loss and 4 draws, 22 KOs) confirmed the development, during the ceremonial unveiling of his statue in Murcia on Wednesday.
?It?s been my dream to move up in the higher weight division to face big names in this sport. I?ve been in the 108 pounds for quite a time and felt that I really need a more challenging fight,? he said.
There?s no specific opponent yet for him on the said date although ALA Promotions is considering unified WBA and WBO flyweight champion Juan Francisco Estrada of Mexico. The 26-year-old Estrada has an impressive record of 33 victories, 2 defeats with 22 knockouts.
?It still depends on Estrada if he accepts the challenge. But, if not, then we will look for another opponent like Nicaraguan and undefeated WBC flyweight champion Roman ?Chocolatito? Gonzalez,? he said. Gonzalez has 45 wins including 38 knockouts.
Nietes statue
Meanwhile, Murcia Mayor Andrew Montelibano, who led the unveiling of the boxing champion?s statue, said on Wednesday was a historic date for the Murciahanons as they honor Nietes for his contributions to his hometown and to the entire country.
?We have given him all the Sangguniang Bayan (Municipal Council) resolutions every time he wins. Now, we thought of a different way of recognizing what he has done to Murcia hence, this statue,? the mayor said.
?He has been a great inspiration for many aspiring boxers in Murcia and in other localities. The ALA gym here has been an instrument of training future champions who will follow the footsteps of Nietes,? he added.
Nietes thanked Montelibano, the Municipal Council, and the people of Murcia for the recognition, and promised to keep striving to continue giving honor to the country.
