By Edward Chaykovsky
Trainer Jonathan Penalosa, who previously worked with former champion Nonito Donaire (33-3, 21 KOs), says the boxer is still very capable of winning a world title - but at super bantamweight. He feels Donaire has become too slow at the featherweight limit of 126-pounds and needs to drop down.
Donaire struggled in his stoppage win over Vic Darchinyan and then he was knocked out in his featherweight title fight with unbeaten puncher Nicholas Walters. The 'Filipino Flash' is considering a return to 122. He might return on a date in April in the Philippines.
Penalosa told GMA News: “He got slow. Since his fight with Rigondeaux, all he wants is to trade, go for the kill. He used to have fast hands and feet. He had a better chance against Walters if he boxed, used his speed and footwork. He wasn’t supposed to trade with the stronger and bigger Walters. He’s not for that division. He should go back to 122 pounds [super bantamweight. He can be a world champion again."