FORMER five-division world champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire believes he knows what must be done in his WBO International super bantamweight title fight against the champion and No. 1-ranked Cesar Juarez when they clash in Puerto Rico on Saturday.
In a last-minute development, the WBO confirmed that Guillermo Rigondeaux, who was stripped of the title for inactivity last October has, through his lawyers, withdrawn the appeal filed against the decision. This leaves the door open for the Donaire-Juarez fight to be elevated to a world title fight, which Top Rank promoter Bob Arum had predicted would happen.
Boxing Scene reported that the WBO head of the Complaints and Grievance Committee said the appeal is dismissed as the lawyers no longer challenged the October ruling that stripped the undefeated Rigondeaux of the super bantamweight title.
Following another workout yesterday, Donaire said: “I know what must be done. I must win.”
Donaire, who has trained harder than ever before under the guidance of his father/trainer Dodong Donaire, added: “My opponent is a tough guy and he is hungry like a wolf. My job is to beat the wolf.”
He also noted that Juarez is ranked No.1 by the WBO and he (Donaire) is ranked No. 2.
Donaire reflected on his crushing sixth-round defeat at the hands of the much bigger and stronger Nicholas Walters of Jamaica when he moved up in weight and paid the price.
“When I was down on the canvas in the Walters’ fight, I thought to myself ‘this is a blessing’. It was a blessing because I had lost my way, not giving boxing the respect it deserves. I was searching for something. I was unsatisfied. I went home and re-dedicated myself to the sport. I worked harder in the gym. I got out of bed early in the mornings and did my running. I went to a Tony Robbins seminar for motivation and then read the book, ‘The Power of Habits,’”
Donaire said. “I must win on Friday night (Puerto Rico Time). I am out of setbacks.
“I feel like I am 21 again,” said the 33-year-old Filipino Flash. “My speed has increased, my power is much stronger. My happiness is back. I had a great camp. We did really well. I feel great. Weight is no problem and although I am excited I know the key is to fight smart.”
Dodong Donaire said he couldn’t ask for anything more from his son.