Pinoy Pride 36: Legend in the Making was officially launched yesterday at The Social with (from left) coach Edito Villamor, “King” Arthur Villanueva, The Social owner Kevin Moss, Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, Milan Melindo and coach Edmund Villamor. (CDNPHOTO/LITO M. TECSON)
DONNIE “Ahas” Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino boxing champion, will meet Raul “Rayito” Garcia of Mexico on May 28 as he defends his WBO world light flyweight title in the main event “Pinoy Pride 36: Legend in the Making” at the Saint La Salle University Coliseum in Bacolod City.
Although Nietes (37-1-4, 21KOs) is already considered a legend in Philippine boxing, the 33-year-old Ilonggo is looking to solidify his reputation by fighting a foe with a fearsome pedigree. Garcia (38-3-1,23KOs) is the twin brother of Ramon Garcia Hirales, whom Nietes beat via unanimous decision in 2011.
“It’s honor and pride that keeps me fighting. It keeps me hungry to win more titles and dominate more opponents,” said Nietes in the official launching of PP36 at The Social in Ayala Center Cebu.
Nietes had a tough time defeating Garcia Hirales in 2011 but promised to get the job done early against another Garcia.
“I have a different mindset for May 28. I will be more than prepared to fight him (Garcia),” said Nietes. “I can knock him out if he does not run around the ring. I am more confident this time compared to 2011.”
His rainer, Edito Villamor, couldn’t agree more. He said his prized boxer is indeed a living legend because of the dedication he puts in training.
Meanwhile, two-time world title challenger Milan “El Metodico” Melindo (33-2, 12KOs) eyes to avenge last year’s loss to Javier “Cobra” Mendoza (24-3-1, 19KOs) when they tangle again in the undercard.
Melindo will try to hit two birds with one stone as he is not only eyeing to avenge his loss to Mendoza but also clinch a shot for the IBF world light flyweight title being held by Japanese Akira Yaegashi.
“This is going to be a great fight, because unlike in Mexico where the fans cheered for your opponent, it’s the other way around here. It gives you extra energy and push to continue the fight,” Melindo said.
Also included in the undercard is former world title challenger and another Ilonggo “King” Arthur Villanueva (28-1, 14KOs) going up against Juan “El Peñita” Jimenez (22-9, 15KOs).
Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards.
