Nietes, Donaire to hold public sparring

CEBU, Philippines - Two boxing superstars Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes and Nonito ‘Filipino Flash’ Donaire will appear in a public sparring this 3 p.m at the ALA Fitness Gym in Banilad Town Center.

This is in preparation for their upcoming bouts in the highly-anticipated ‘Pinoy Pride 30: D-Day’ boxing event on March 28 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Reigning WBO light flyweight champion Nietes (34-1, 20KOs) will try to retain his title against Mexican power-hitter Gilberto ‘Parrita’ Parra (19-1, 17KOs).

Donaire (33-3, 21KOs) co-headlines Nietes as he battles Brazilian William Prado (22-4, 15KOs) for the vacant North American Boxing Federation super bantamweight title.

Nietes will show his speed and power as he spars with undefeated Virgil Vitor for two rounds, while Donaire will test his skills against Japanese Ryo Akaho.

Aside from Nietes and Donaire, IBF Intercontinental super bantamweight champion ‘Prince’ Albert Pagara will also spar with another undefeated ALA pug Melvin Gumban.

The boxing preview is open and free to the public. After sparring, Nietes and Donaire will accommodate their fans for autograph signing and photo sessions. — Lemuel P. Maglinte (FREEMAN)