Nonito Donaire Lays Out His Plan to Become Undisputed World Bantamweight Champion
Nonito Donaire (41-6, 27 KOs) cemented himself as an all-time great with his fourth-round knockout win over Nordine Oubaali (17-1, 12 KOs) to win the WBC World Bantamweight title. It was a history-making victory on numerous fronts. At age 38, Donaire became the oldest fighter to win a world title at bantamweight. He is also the eleventh man in boxing history to win a world title in three different decades. Having accomplished so much, one would believe “The Filipino Flash” would be satisfied. Au contraire mon frère, the vet is ready for more.
After defeating Oubaali, the new bantamweight champion discussed what he wants next. He is targeting a rematch with IBF/WBA ‘Super’ World Bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (20-0, 17 KOs). Responding to SHOWTIME Boxing’s Jim Gray’s question about a second fight against Inoue, Donaire views the Japanese superstar as a step towards a much bigger goal.
“This is why I wanted to win this fight, because that is my next goal. The only thing I have yet to accomplish in boxing is becoming undisputed.
That is my goal this year. That is my goal until I get there. I will make it happen. The next phase is getting the rematch.”
IN CASE YOU DON’T REMEMBER
If a rematch between Donaire and Inoue happens, it would be a real treat. The two fought in the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) Tournament Final in November 2019. It was an epic, back-and-forth battle. Fighting through a fractured orbital bone, Naoya Inoue rallied late to win by unanimous decision. It was by far his toughest test.
Donaire surprised many with his performance in that fight. Should a rematch occur, there is plenty of reason to feel it would be yet another excellent fight. Given how Donaire dismantled Oubaali, let’s hope Donaire v Inoue II can take place this year.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
