MACAU – One thing the Donaires learned watching tapes of Simpiwe Vetyeka’s fights is that the South African has power behind his right hand.
And his right hand only.
Nonito Donaire Jr. said they’ve never seen Vetyeka fight in the flesh but through the Internet the father-and-son tandem had seen enough.
Donaire’s father and trainer, Nonito Sr., did most of the scouting on Youtube. He knows what to watch out for.
“Dapat iwasan yung right hand niya (You should avoid his right hand),†said Nonito Sr. heading to Saturday’s WBA featherweight title clash at the Cotai Arena here.
“Wala naman lakas yung left. So yung kanan talaga ang babantayan,†he added.
Nonito Sr. noted that Vetyeka, who took the 126 lb title with a sixth-round TKO of the previously undefeated Chris John last December, has the ability to throw punches while backing up.
“If you pressure him, tumatakbo siya tapos bigla humihinto at tatapon ng suntok kahit umaatras siya, sumusuntok especially with his right,†said the father.
Donaire and Vetyeka are already in Macau. On Wednesday evening, Top Rank has prepared a welcome ceremony for both fighters at the main lobby of The Venetian Hotel.
Vetyeka spoke to The Ring and said he’s ready to defend the title against the 31-year-old Donaire, known for his ability to stop an opponent with one punch.
But the South African, who’s two years older, knows that it’s going to be tough.
“With Donaire, it is always going to be tough. I cannot wait for May 31 to come and showcase my talent and abilities against one of the best fighters in the world,†said Vetyeka.
“It is going to be an interesting fight,†added the champion.