Quest for glory continues for Nonito

Sports

NONITO Donaire Jr. has been fighting as a pro for the past 25 years and has managed to cement his name as one of the best to ever lace the gloves.

Already owner of four world titles and turning 44 years old, Donaire is not showing signs of slowing down. In fact, the Boholano fighter nicknamed “The Filipino Flash” is gearing up for another big fight as he tries to inch closer to another shot at a world title.

Donaire will figure in another title eliminator fight when he faces Japanese Riku Masuda in Yokohama, Japan on March 15.

A victory against Masuda will allow Donaire to take another shot at the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight title currently held by Seiya Tsutsumi.

Donaire and Tsutsumi faced each other last Dacember with the Japanese boxer escaping with a close win to win the WBA belt.

Sporting a 43W-9L, 28KOs record, Donaire has been extra active as his upcoming assignment will be his third bout in nine months.

“Eyes forward. I’ve been back in the gym since December 24 — no announcements, no shortcuts, just work,” said Donaire in an Instagram post. “Grateful beyond measure for the opportunity. This is what discipline prepares you for. Respect to everyone who helped make today professional and sharp — from the lighting to the sound to the cameras.

He may have lost against Tsutsumi but Donaire was still able to retain his No.1 spot in the WBA bantamweight ranking, paving the way to the duel against the No.4 ranked Masuda.

Masuda is one of Japan’s rising boxers. The 28-year-old fighter has nine wins and one loss with eight of victories coming via knockout.(CCM)