Nonito Donaire's reflex decline?

Nonito has never been known for his defense. He was always considered your typical counter puncher. He normally always ate punches. However, I did notice some slight signs and slippage in his punch resistance though. In addition, he showed small amounts of vulnerability too. For example, every time Burnett would catch Nonito flush, it would move his entire body backwards and that has never been Donaire's style. He ate some huge shots from Rigondeaux; However, he didn't so much as flinch. As Guillermo Rigondeaux was a much faster puncher than Burnett. I must admit that I was more impressed with this Nonito Donaire's performance than I had in recent years however. 118lbs is a natural fit for him and I can only hope at 35 years of age, that he can maintain the weight without losing any more of his legs, stamina or power.

Usually that's what happens when you approach your mid 30's. He was never going to be the fighter he was once he lost his natural athleticism. He'll always be a threat because of his power but technically, he'll be a step behind the top-tier boxers.

Nonito lost to Cesear Chavez a few years back in a grueling fight ( i say lost as in unoffical) but since then I knew he was done, he couldnt bang and nor did he have the reflexes,skills to do anything else but try to outlast the onslaught. no he did not...but he almost got stopped a couple of times in that fight...what stood out for me was juarez's chin,he was taking everything from nonito but was still coming forward nonstop ...that is also why i think dogboe is one bad sob, like the errol spence of lower weights....

He's declining like any normal clean athlete, especially in the lower divisions, should

Thats been clear for few yrs man lol. Plus he been the cleanest fighter of his generation. So your seeing a natural rise, peak, decline

Yup, it's been a while since he slowed down. He had terrific reflexes in his prime. Made his power all that much effective back then.

Its been happening for years now.Hes past his prime.

Of course, he's 35 years old. I think Tete will be a better matchup for him than Burnett though.

As was said, it's been happening for quite a while now.

both. Also, 35 is ancient for a fighter down at Bantamweight usually.

This has been evident several fights back.