Nietes-Ioka II set to take place for WBO Jr. bantamweight supremacy

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Filipino boxing superstar Donnie “Ahas” Nietes will have a chance to clinch another world boxing title after fight negotiations with Kazuto Ioka from Japan were made possible.

Nietes already fought Ioka four years ago and earned a split decision victory but had to vacate the WBO world junior bantamweight belt after deciding to move to another weight class and challenge their top dogs.

After taking a break from the sport amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the former multi-weight world champion made a stunning comeback and scored a unanimous decision victory over Pablo Carrillo and defied father time.

With a month left before his highly-anticipated clash with Ioka, Nietes is thrilled to reclaim the championship belt he vacated four years ago.

“This rematch makes me excited and when I vacated the title in 2018 it was always in my mind that I would, one day, win it back. On July 13, that dream will become a reality,” said Nietes.

However, Nietes will be facing a different version of Ioka. Already more mature and patient with his fighting style approach, the Japanese pug is a lot different now and has developed more technical skills including his defense and timings.

During their clash, Ioka would always engage Nietes in a close-ranged slugfest that went in favor of the Filipino tactician.

Ioka then used his loss against Nietes as a stepping stone to improve and steamrolled his way to five consecutive wins in two years.

Meanwhile, Nietes, who won against Carrillo and finished in a draw decision against Norbelto Jimenez last year, showed no signs of ring rust and was consistent with his efficient counter-punching and high volume of jabs.

“This was the fight I wanted the most and I am incredibly eager to win back my world title. I have been in training since February for this fight,” added Nietes.