By Aldo Filomeno
The Filipino Flash has one the most powerful punches, with lightning speed and topnotch footwork. An extraordinary and intelligent pugilist, he can switch anytime from an orthodox to southpaw, to confuse an enemy.
At 30, Nonito Donaire, was chosen by the ESPN as the 2012 “Boxer of the Year.” He is a four-division world champ and superbantamweight king of the WBO, WBC Diamond and The Ring. He holds a sterling record of 32 fights (31 wins, 20 KO, 1 loss).
Last year, he fought against superbantamweight WBC emeritus Toshiaki Nishioka, who had an impressive record of 47 fights (39 wins, 24 KO, 5 losses, 3 draws). It was a mismatch, as Nishioka, aging at 36, fought defensively and was not a shadow of his old self. Nonito won by technical knockout in the 9th round with his superior strength, power and ringmanship.
He ended 2012 by finishing the career of the feared 4-division king Jorge Arce, nicknamed “El Travieso”, (The Menace), in overwhelming third round knockout.
Likewise, he was impressive in previous years with career ending blows against sluggers Hernan Marquez, and Fernando Montiel, whom he sent to dreamland. Thus, Nishioka, Montiel and Arce were forced into retirement.
However, many began to question Nonito’s ability to shift strategies against non-engaging opponents. His victory against Jeff Mathebula, Wilfredo Vasquez, Omar Andres Narvaez, were boring, as these boxers were only after their survival and the purse. For boxing fans who wanted non-stop action, went home disappointed.
In the forthcoming fight in April 13, between Donaire and Guillermo Rigondeaux, what can the boxing fans expect? Donaire is an inch taller at 5”6, while Rigondeaux stands 5”5 and two years older at 32.
The Cuban fighter is two time gold medalist in the 2000 and 2004 Summer Olympics, with almost 400 amateur fights (12 losses). As a WBA superbantamweight titlist, he has a record of 11 fights (8 KOs).
Among those he flattened in the canvass were Willie Casey, Rico Ramos, Roberto Marroquin, among others. His win against Ricardo Cordoba ended in split decision.
Rigondeaux is technical and considered one of the best amateur boxers. A counter puncher, he likes to deliver a right jab, then follow it up with a powerful left straight and body shots. Once the victim is at the ropes, Reigondeaux delivers non-stop combinations.
But the Cuban champ has a tendency to drop his right hand, which could be exploited by Donaire. Can he withstand Donaire’s devastating blows?
For sure, if Rigondeaux will exchange punches, the Filipino Flash will break him slowly with his thunderous left, right hooks, crosses and crushing body shots.
Does Rigondeaux have enough arsenal to silence the Filipino Flash? Will he perform like a ring “monster” as he claims to be and upset Donaire?
(Filomeno is the author of an ebook, “The Manny Pacquiao Files” at http:://pacmanfiles.com.)
Got an Opinion? Submit Your Articles and Press Releases to be posted on NowBoxing.com
*Please refrain from leaving any Racist, Profane or Derogatory comments*
