Arum on Donaire's Options: Moreno, Rigondeaux, Arce

By Chris LaBate

Top Rank's CEO, Bob Arum, is working for a quick resolution of the contract dispute with WBC/WBO bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire (26-1, 18KOs). Donaire, who inked a three-year contract with Top Rank in June 2008, believed his contract was no longer valid and he signed a four year deal with Golden Boy Promotions in March. Donaire's contract had clauses which called for certain extensions which bound him to Top Rank for an extended amount of time. Daniel Weinstein, a California arbitrator, agreed with Top Rank's position.

If they find a solution in the near future, Arum is looking at matching Donaire against WBA champion Anselo "Chemito" Moreno (31-1-1, 11KOs), unbeaten two-time Olympic Gold medal winner Guillermo Rigondeaux (8-0, 6KOs), or even WBO super bantamweight champion Jorge Arce (57-6-2, 44KOs).

“We’re trying to sort this out right away for Nonito’s benefit,” said Arum to The Philippine Star . “We’ve gone to an arbitrator who confirmed that what he signed with Golden Boy wasn’t binding. We’re positive about finding a solution. We want to resolve this case as soon as possible.”

“I think Moreno would be the first option. Nonito was supposed to fight him in May. But I can see many other good fights for Nonito. Arce would be a great fight. Another is Rigondeaux. It’s all up to Nonito.”