Who is Mr. Donatelli from The Contender and what is their importance?

Mr. Donatelli (Vito) is a stocky, older white man who owns and operates Donatelli’s Gym in Harlem. He is an experienced boxing manager, and he allows Alfred to start sparring with other fighters. After a short period of time, he decides that Alfred is ready for some real fights outside the gym. By helping Alfred work out physically and emotionally, Mr. Donatelli gives him the tools he needs to succeed at anything he puts his mind to.