Donaire seeks ‘biggest fights possible’
MANILA, Philippines - Nonito Donaire Jr. will begin the next chapter of his boxing career under a new promoter whom he hopes will give him “the biggest fights possible”.
ESPN.com’s Dan Rafael reported that the former four-division champion has signed with Ringstar Sports of promoter Richard Schaefer, who once headed Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions.
The 34-year-old Donaire now turns his attention again to the featherweight division, where he once reigned as the WBA champion.
“Exploring what was out there in the new landscape of boxing was unnerving and exciting at the same time,” he said.
“I have known Richard for many years and have always respected what he has been able to do for the fighters he promotes. At this point in my career I want the biggest fights possible and Richard’s track record to deliver them speaks for itself,” added Donaire.
Donaire hasn’t fought since losing the WBO super bantamweight crown to Jessie Magdaleno in Las Vegas last year. He lobbied for a rematch but failed, prompting him to amicably part ways with promoter Top Rank Inc.
Now, he’ll resume his career under Schaefer, who, for his part, is ecstatic with his latest signing.
“Nonito wants to fight at 126 pounds again, and it’s one of the hottest weight classes in the sport,” said Schaefer, adding that Donaire will return to the ring in a 10-round tune-up bout either in September or October.
After that, Donaire will reportedly seek showdowns with featherweight titlists Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares and Lee Selby, or ex-champ Carl Frampton.
“The thought of the megafights against the likes of Mares, Santa Cruz, Selby or Frampton gets my blood boiling,” Donaire continued.
“The next chapter of my career is starting now and I am excited to say that it is with Ringstar. I am grateful to my fans and team for their continued support.” he said. – Dino Maragay/Philstar.com
- Latest
- Trending