Nonito Donaire (Photo : REUTERS)
Former five-division world champion, Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire (35-3, 23 KO's) was in camp recently, with his father Nonito Sr., wailing away at a heavy bag when he offered a few candid quotes on Money Mayweather and a life tip.
The Filipino-American boxing maestro is currently scheduled to face junior featherweight number one contender Cesar Juarez (17-3, 13 KO's) on December 11 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Donaire is co-headlining a feature with highly-regarded Puerto Rican prospect, 22-year old Felix Verdejo (18-0, 13 KO's).
In a video posted by Elie Seckbach of ESNewsReporting, Donaire, donning a red shirt with symbols of the Philippine flag emblazoned on it, pummelled away at a heavy bag while having a good chat with the quirky reporter.
"Red, it's the champion's corner," said Donaire, when asked if he knew what the difference was between the red and the blue corner. "And then you have the blue, the challenger's corner. Something like that."
Donaire, a former multiple-time world champion in five different weight classes -- an achievement rare in boxing -- hasn't been a world champion since he lost by devastating knockout to Nicholas Walters last year.
But those close to him, including avid supporters, still feel Donaire has the potential for another long championship reign.
"That's why he's wearing red, He's the champ," a voice said in the background.
Donaire is on a comeback path of sorts.
Beginning with a tough decision loss to Cuban tormentor Guillermo Rigondeaux back in 2013, including the loss to Walters, Donaire had often told media that his heart just wasn't into boxing despite his obvious talent.
As it stood, his efforts were good enough to blast most opponents out of the water, but when it came to a big fight, Donaire underperformed despite being fully capable of victory.
Now, a resurgent Donaire claims of laser-focus and a newfound dedication that has his fans awaiting his return to the top of the rankings.
"When I fight, I'm going to wear green. Just something new. It's called healing -- the energy of healing. Like Mother Earth, green," replied Donaire.
"Like Mayweather?" asked Seckbach.
"His [Mayweather's] is money," answered Donaire.
"But it's green," retorted Seckbach.
"It is green, but it's money though. And he makes it rain," Donaire said, smiling widely.
Donaire then went on to compare his financial capabilities to that of Mayweather's, and grinned as he described how he doesn't even come close.
From all accounts, Donaire is looking as mighty as ever, ready to seize the opportunity for another shot at a world title. His punches were swift and powerful, as the leather from his gloves cracked the heavy bag like thunder.
Before Donaire put on a show for those in the gym, he ended with a thought for the day.
"Life is your choice, man," said Donaire. "Whatever you believe in is what comes to be."
