CEBU, Philippines — At 38, four-division world champion Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire feels that he’s still in peak form to fulfill all that he desires at this stage of his brilliant career.
And he’s all pumped up and ready to make history.
Donaire (40-6, 26KOs) seeks to become the oldest world bantamweight titlist when he challenges the undefeated WBC crown-holder Nordine Oubaali (17-0, 12KOs) of France on May 29 (Sunday, May 30 Phl time) at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
“It would be great to win the title at 38 years old and become the oldest champion at 118 pounds, but let’s keep it going. Let’s make it 40. Let’s make it 42. There ain’t no stopping me. Mentally, I’m very grateful but at the same time I’m just very ready,” Donaire said during the event’s final press conference.
Not underestimating his foe, Donaire looks forward to a great fight knowing that Oubaali is defending champion for a reason.
But the Fil-Am fighter claims he is at his strongest at bantamweight and that he has tools to dethrone his French rival.
“Bantamweight is my real weight. I’ve always fought in the heavier division because of the excitement, the challenge and the lucrative offer or the names at that time. Now, I’m here where I belong and this is where I’m really strong,” said Donaire.
“The difference in this fight is going to be my hunger. He’s younger than me but I have the hunger. We both have an objective and that’s what’s going to make this a great fight,” he added.
If he succeeds in dismantling Oubali, Donaire made known this early his intent to secure a rematch with Japan’s Naoya Inoue and then unify all titles in the 118-pound division.
“I want to fight the best out there. I want the rematch with Naoya Inoue and I want to get all the belts. The only thing I haven’t accomplished in boxing is becoming undisputed champion. I’ve done everything else. Fighter of the Year. Knockout of the Year. Multiple championships. Four-division champion. You name it. That’s my main goal. Get the belt and put them all together,” Donaire declared.
Donaire must be extra cautious though as Oubaali has the same motivation in trying to keep his belt in their 12-round rumble.
“If I’m victorious, why not have my next fight be for the unification? I want to make history every time and this is my motivation. I’m here because I love boxing and I want to face the best boxers every time. I’m facing Nonito Donaire and that’s great for my career. I just like to fight and this is my life,” Oubaali said.