SAN LEANDRO, CALIF. - Newly-minted IBF/IBO flyweight champion NONITO "THE FILIPINO FLASH" DONAIRE is still celebrating the biggest victory of his career, six days after uncorking a vintage left hook that knocked out the previously undefeated and seemingly invincible defending champion Vic Darchinyan at 1:38 of round five. The world title fight was broadcast nationally on SHOWTIME.
"I'm calling that punch "Pinoy Noir" because of its silky smooth delivery and powerful finish," said Donaire. "I'll tell you one thing, "Pinoy Noir" goes with everything and complements a wide range of fighters, especially the ones who have title belts around their waists!"
Too bad Wine Spectator doesn't rate punches. It would surely garner a perfect "100" score!
"I am so happy for Nonito. He and his family are such class acts," said Gary Shaw, Donaire's promoter. "When he and his brother Glenn signed with me I promised them I would get them fights and if they won them, I would get them title shots, even if it meant fighting another GSP fighter. Nonito beat a great champion in Vic Darchinyan and I know Vic will bounce back from this and be in the hunt for another world title sooner as opposed to later. He's an exciting fighter.
"As for Nonito, my first priority is to sit down with him, along with his father and manager Cameron Dunkin and discuss our options. We have no problem going for title unification fights in the U.S. or in The Philippines against Navarez (WBO), Sakata (WBA) or Wonjongkam (WBC). On the other hand, Nonito had been campaigning as a super flyweight and challenging one of those world champions, including Cristian Mijares, who destroyed Jorge Arce, is very tempting too. I am confident we will have a game plan for Nonito's next fight shortly. However, I can promise you one thing, we will not be fighting in Thailand. If Wonjongkam wants to fight Nonoito, it will be on an international stage in front of a worldwide television audience."
Donaire (18-1, 11 KOs), a native of General Santos City in The Philippines, home of pound-for-pound superstar Manny Pacquiao, lives in San Leandro, Calif. Moving down from his familiar stomping grounds as a super flyweight, Donaire extended his six-year winning streak to 17 fights with his victory over Darchinyan (28-1, 22 KOs.)
