Velarde vows to stun Nietes

CEBU, Philippines – Former Mexican world champion Carlos ‘Chapito’ Velarde (26-3, 14KOs) wants to put his name in history books by scoring an upset over WBO light flyweight champion Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes  (33-1, 19KOs)  in the main event of ‘Pinoy Pride 28: History in the Making’ fightcard this Saturday night at the Pacific grand ballroom of the Waterfront-Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Velarde knows that a lot is at stake for Nietes, who is gunning for the record of the late Cebuano great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde as the longest reigning Filipino world boxing champion. Elorde held the world junior welterweight title for seven years and three months.

But the Mexican boxer also eyes piece of history as he aims to dethrone Nietes.

“I see Nietes as a solid champion and I know this is an important fight for him, but I am here to get it,” said the 24-year-old Mexican in a press conference yesterday at Raja Park Hotel. “He wants to make history, but I also want to be part of history by beating him.”

Even if he is eight years younger than the Pinoy champion, Velarde knows that he doesn't lack experience especially that he once fought for a world title.

Velarde vied for the WBA minimumweight crown but lost by fifth round TKO to Japanese Ryo Miyazaki in August 2013 in Osaka, Japan.

“I have been in this situation before but the difference is that this time I know what to do to win. Nietes is a great boxer and I like his style but I have the advantage and that is being a Mexican warrior.”

He also didn't dismiss the possibility of knocking out Nietes in their fight if he gets the chance. “I am the type of boxer with a one punch knockout but I am prepared if the fight goes the distance.” “In the ring, nothing is written because each fight is different from another,” added Velarde.

Aside from Velarde, three more Mexican pugs are also aiming to snatch a win in their opponents’ lair. They are Raul Hirales [22-3, 11KOs], Saul ‘Baby’ Juarez and WBO minimumweight champion Francisco ‘Chihuas’ Rodriguez [16-2, 11KOs].

Hirales will challenge Albert ‘Prince’ Pagara [21-2, 15KOs] for the IBF Intercontinental light featherweight title, while Juarez will battle Milan ‘El Metodico’ Melindo [31-1, 12KOS] in an IBF light flyweight title eliminator.

Rodriguez, who is responsible for dethroning ALA boxer Merlito Sabillo last March 22 in Mexico, will be tested by Jomar Fajardo [14-5, 7KOs] of Aljoe Jaro stable in a 10-round, non-title bout. (FREEMAN)