Nonito Donaire finds new inspiration in the ring
Philippine bantamweight boxer Nonito Donaire (24-1, 16 KOs) says despite a tremendous professional record, he is only now motivated to fight his best.
In an ATP article, the fighter announced, "I want to make a statement of who Nonito Donaire really is. I've never really been motivated. I'm reaching the more fully me, the better me. This is finally the chance I have been looking for."
Donaire will get that opportunity when he fights for the interim WBA bantamweight belt December 4 against opponent Wladimiro Sidorenko. Sidorenko, a former WBA champion, shouldn’t be a hop, skip, and a jump, but he will lead to a huge showdown with Mexican
prizefighter Fernando Montiel in February.
Montiel (43-2, 33 KOs), the WBC bantamweight champion, is considered one, if not, the top dogs of the bantamweight division.
"When I have Montiel in my sight, as my target, I feel totally motivated. I have no fear," Donaire said. "They are going to see a different guy going in there. I'm motivated with Montiel on the horizon. This is where I want to be. I want to send a message
to Montiel, but I won't take Sidorenko lightly."
Sidorenko was ousted for his WBA title in 2008, but bounced back to the fore with an August decision over Mbwana Matumla.
Donaire emphasized that the upcoming December bout with Sidorenko may be a change of pace from what he's used to.
"He’s there to bring his name up in beating me," Donaire confirmed. "It may be a different style than what I have seen, but I have always been one to change my style to take advantage of my opponent."
Robert Garcia, who trains Donaire, was willing to second claims that his fighter was more inspired than ever to put on a good show and make his way to the top.
"He's already sparring 12 rounds. He went 12 rounds on Saturday and I was surprised with his skills and conditioning. He wasn't even breathing hard so I'm pleased with his fitness. We're not taking it easy."
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