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MANILA, Philippines — It’s Nonito Donaire’s turn to shine.
After Manny Pacquiao’s disappointing and controversial loss to Timothy Bradley early in June, Filipino boxing fans could use a little comforting which may come in the form of Donaire (28-1, 18 KOs).
Donaire, the WBO junior featherweight champion, will face off against with IBF champion Jeffrey Mathebula (26-3-2, 14 KOs) of Johannesburg, South Africa, in a world title unification fight on Saturday, July 7, to determine who reigns supreme in the 122-pound division.
The Filipino-American fighter who is based in San Leandro, California knows what’s at stake and embraces the challenge.
“The motivation is in my heart to work toward my goals and my dreams,” Donaire said. “To be a unified champion then challenge anyone out there and make it undisputed is a dream and hopefully I can make it happen.”
Taller opponent
Over the past weeks, Donaire has spent his time training in Oxnard, California under the tutelage of boxing trainer Robert Garcia.
Garcia said he is happy with his General Santos native boxer who has exceeded expectations in training camp.
“He has been sparring with tall sparring partners and people that are a lot heavier than him. He has been pushing himself really hard to come out and put on a really good performance,” Garcia told press in a conference call to promote the fight.
At 5’10, Mathebula will be the tallest fighter Donaire — who is 3 inches shorter — will meet in the ring.
“Mathebula is a very tough fighter,” Donaire said. “I knew this guy would motivate me and he made me train as hard as I did. I don’t know what to expect because he is so tall.”
Garcia and Donaire have spent days looking at possible ways Mathebula will fight, and knows he will use his height advantage to throw combinations.
Donaire however remains confident. He expressed trust in his trainer who he said has the ability to adjust to a fight watching from the corner, and in the training he has done so far.
“I don’t want it to be a long fight. That is what I’m trying to say,” said Donaire. “No matter what he brings to the table, we are ready for it.”
Setting an example
In a surprising move, Donaire has also set an example to other boxers by deciding to commit to a 24/7, 365-day random drug test.
The protocol is not required, and neither does Donaire demand it from his opponent, but Donaire said his main concern for doing it is for his fans.
“I decided to do this because I wanted to show that all of the things I have done, I have done through hard work. I want to show honesty towards my fans,” he said. “A lot of guys have been getting caught but I just wanted to prove to my fans that the things I have done I have done by myself.”
The issue of drug testing has been a constant point of contention in the sport of boxing.
Senators have put in a bill for a Federal Boxing Commission that would institute random drug testing for registered fighters in the United States. As it stands, there are no clear legal guidelines to follow when fighters are caught taking illegal substances, and neither is there an authorized agency to conduct testings.
While Donaire’s promoter Bob Arum had concerns with the move mainly because of the absence of an official agency that would ensure fairness in drug testing, Donaire said his decision is final.
“I am honest and I think it’s good for the sport,” Donaire said. “I hope everyone is inspired by it to prove they are legit and that it can help the sport.” – Rappler.com
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