Pacquiao hires Donaire Sr. as assistant trainer

MANILA, Philippines – Nonito Donaire Sr., the father of former champion Nonito Jr., was tapped to lend his expertise and beef up Manny Pacquiao's think-tank in preparation for the Filipino icon’s fight with WBA welterweight titlist Lucas Matthysse on July 15 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

A week after opening training camp, Pacquiao hired Donaire to help out in plotting tactical plans against Matthysse.

"Donaire will serve as one of the assistant coaches," said Pacquiao, who did two trial rounds with the mitts with the elder Donaire.

It was Donaire Sr. — originally hailing also from General Santos City — who trained and honed his son, who later won multiple former world championships in three weight divisions.

"So far, so good. I am happy with my current team," said Pacquiao, who took a break from training during the weekend to rest and relax.

Pacquiao went scuba diving Sunday and was refreshed to do his road work the morning after.

The fighting senator is trying to have an all-Filipino lineup in his bid to win his 11th world title against the formidable Matthysse, who has knocked out 36 of the 39 opponents he defeated.

Pacquiao’s longtime friend and confidant Buboy Fernandez will still act as head trainer along with assistant trainer Nonoy Neri.

The boxer’s strength and conditioning coach will be named soon.