Nietes wins 3rd world title, beats Thai foe for vacant flyweight belt

FILE PHOTO – Donnie Nietes after his fifth round TKO win over Raul Garcia of Mexico on May 28, 2016. Photo by Roy Luarca

Donnie Nietes bagged his third world title after beating Komgrich Nantapech of Thailand by unanimous decision for the vacant IBF flyweight belt in the main event of Pinoy Pride 40 Saturday night at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino in Cebu.

Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino world champion in history, outpointed Nantapech, 115-113 and 117-111 on two of the judges’ scorecards.

Nietes, who turns 35 on May 13, joined Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire as the only Filipinos to win at least three titles in three different divisions. He won titles in the minimumweight and light flyweight class.

The Negros Occidental native improved his record to 40-1-4 with 22 knockouts. – Roy Luarca