Philippines’ Donnie Nietes (L) poses for pictures throughout the weigh-in for the ‘Lifetime Boxing Fights 1’ in Macau on December 30, 2018. (Photograph by Philip FONG / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines—When Donnie Nietes suffered a one-sided loss in a world title battle final yr, the previous champion mentioned he’s nonetheless able to competing for the belt.
Nietes will get the chance to show his declare in opposition to Muhammad Waseem of Pakistan on July 22 in Dubai for the vacant Worldwide Boxing Group title.
The 41-year-old Nietes confirmed his age in a unanimous determination defeat to Japan’s Kazuto Ioka of their rematch in July final yr however vowed to redeem himself in his ring return.
“I used to be defeated however, with out query, I can nonetheless battle for world titles once more,” Nietes (43-2-6, 23KOs), a four-division champion, mentioned not lengthy after the loss to Ioka.
“There isn’t any doubt in my thoughts that I can problem as soon as once more, and I see myself in all probability having one or two extra fights at world degree earlier than I cling up my gloves contained in the ring.”
The battle in opposition to Waseem (12-2, 8KOs) is a make or break for Nietes, who hasn’t gained since he beat Pablo Carillo on factors again in April 2021.
His earlier bout previous to dealing with Ioka was a break up draw in opposition to Norbelto Jimenez.
Waseem, 35, plans to increase Nietes’ drought.
“Powerful coaching is happening and I’m assured to tug off a win in opposition to Nietes who’s, little question, a troublesome fighter,” Waseem, who had challenged for the IBF tremendous flyweight title twice, informed The Information.
“Nietes has been a troublesome fighter and there’s no doubt about it however his final fights haven’t been that good and I understand how to battle in opposition to him in what may very well be a really essential battle for me. I’ve been doing coaching for over 5 hours each day.”
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Supply: sports activities.inquirer.internet