‘Donaire fought the good fight’

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang yesterday expressed sympathy to Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire after he lost to Jamaica’s Nicholas Walters in a boxing featherweight showdown in Carson, California.

Press Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said Donaire “fought well but lost to a better fighter.”

The Palace also expressed confidence that Donaire would overcome his loss and regain the boxing championship.

“Knowing him (Donaire) to be a highly determined and resilient fighter, we are confident he will soon return to the comeback trail and regain a boxing championship,” Coloma said.

Walters knocked out Donaire in the sixth round, marking Donaire’s third loss in his career.

Donaire was overwhelmed by Walters’ strong punching power when the Jamaican released an overhand right that landed behind Donaire’s ear just seconds left in the round. The punch sent the Filipino boxer dazed to the canvas.

Donaire was able to stand up at nine seconds, but the referee decided to end the match. Walters was adjudged winner by knockout.