ARUM CONGRATULATES NIETES

n a brief audio message coursed through ABS-CBN  sports consultant Peter Musgni which was  played at the recent “Tribute to Donnie Nietes” dinner affair hosted by ALA Promotions renowned boxing patron Tony Aldeguer in Cebu, Arum said “Donnie you are an inspiration to fighters all over the world who look up to you and are very proud of what you have achieved in the sport of boxing.” Arum concluded, you are a true champion and not only your compatriots in the Philippines but people all over the world are very proud of what you have achieved in the sport of boxing.” Inspired by the words of Arum. Nietes thanked the renowned promoter and announced he plans to extend his reign as a world champion for another three years which would make his record a remarkable ten years.

Nietes appears keen on getting back into the ring and is looking forward to his March 28 title defense at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila which will also feature five division world champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire in a return to the ring this time back as a super bantamweight after his crushing 6th round TKO loss to the much bigger and stronger WBA featherweight champion Nicholas Walters in Macau.

ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer told the Manila Standard/ Viva Sports that they will also include undefeated prospect Prince Albert Pagara, the IBF 122 pound Intercontinental champion on the blockbuster card.

Aldeguer said they haven’t chosen the opponents of Nietes and Donaire as yet but indicated he would contact Zanfer Promotions Fernando Beltran to get a Mexican opponent for Donaire who is right now in training at his father/trainer’s gym in Oakland, California (R. Nathanielsz, philboxing)