WITH just a day left before his much-anticipated World Boxing Organization (WBO) super flyweight clash with Japanese star Kazuto Ioka, Donnie Nietes is raring to finally get into the ring and grab his fourth-division world title.
“I’m doing okay. I’m ready,” said Nietes, who’ll face Ioka for the vacant belt on Dec. 31 at the Wynn Palacae Cotai in Macau.
Nietes is still a few pounds over the 115-pound limit, but he assured that it’s just a normal thing for him. “Yes, that’s my usual weight before a fight. I’ll just sweat it out. I’m very excited to face the Japanese,” said the 36-year-old Neites, who holds the distinction of being the longest reigning Filipino world champion.
Nietes came off a controversial split draw with fellow countryman Aston Palicte on Sept. 8 at The Forum in Inglewood, California, in a fight that most thought he won.
The 29-year-old Ioka also fought on that same event and beat McWilliams Arroyo by a convincing unanimous decision. Nietes is 41-1-5 with 23 knockouts, while Ioka is 23-1 with 13 knockouts. EKA