Nonito Donaire returns this Saturday live from Macau against Anthony Settoul. Since his 2012 Fighter of the Year victory, Donaire has been on sort of a downward swing.
First, he was out-classed by Guillermo Rigondeaux. Then, he went life and death against Vic Darchinyan, a guy he previously defeated. He took in Simpiwe Vetyeka in what was sort of a debacle victory, and then was stopped by Nicholas Walters.
Donaire now continues his trek at 122; he is coming off a victory in March in his native Philippines. And for his second fight in 2015, he will remain in Asia.
“Boxing has become a global sport, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to be fighting in the Far East,” Donaire told ESPN.com. “They are great fans. And because of boxing’s international appeal, fans seem to be able to keep up with my training camps and fights. Based on my social [media] platform traffic, I don’t feel that I am out of mind of U.S. fans at all. Having this fight on as the main event on UniMas also benefits my visibility in the U.S.”
Donaire says he is working on being active and setting up his knockout punches rather than wait for the perfect punch.
“In this training camp my dad [and trainer, Nonito Donaire Sr.] and I really worked on honing my boxing skills to set up my power shots rather than just going in looking for a knockout of the year. My power is still there. It’s all about using it effectively.”
Donaire says he feels more comfortable at 122 lbs. and should he win, will pursue a fight with Scott Quigg, who also fights on the same day against Kiko Martinez.
“Absolutely. 122 is where I belong. It’s where I fight at my best; I really like that fight with Quigg. Great for me and great for the fans. I’m totally on board.”
