Donaire: Let me fight in Manny undercard
Manila, Philippines–Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire Jr. is setting his sights on fighting in one of the undercard bouts of an event that will be headlined by Manny Pacquiao late this year. Donaire, the interim WBA superflyweight titleholder, spoke of his desire to get a piece of the limelight in Pacquiao’s fights at Tuesday’s PSA Forum at the Shakey’s UN Avenue in Manila. “It would be an honor and I think it’s long overdue,” said Donaire of the possibility of fighting in the supporting bout that will be headlined by Pacquiao. Pacquiao, winner of titles in seven divisions, is reportedly penciled to fight Mexico’s Antonio Margarito in Nov. 13 with Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Dallas and Monterrey, Mexico among the probable venues. Michael Koncz, Pacquiao’s adviser, is currently in the UAE, reportedly upon the invitation of the Royal Family which is keen on staging the fight of the Filipino pound-for-pound king. Though Bob Arum of Top Rank favors to hold the fight in Texas, the UAE is making a last ditch-effort to change the astute promoter’s mind. “It’s not everyday that I’ll fight in an undercard that features Manny. I’m personally requesting Top Rank to include me in the fight card,” added Donaire, who scored an eighth round TKO victory over Hernan Marquez in his last fight late last month. Having dominated the 112- and 115-pound divisions, Donaire believes he can carry his “speed and power” in the 118-lb division. Among the fighters Donaire is eyeing to fight are WBC bantamweight champ Fernando Montiel of Mexico, WBO bantamweight king Eric Morel of Puerto Rico or WBO super bantamweight title holder Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. Donaire said his loyalty remains with Pacquiao despite the fact that his current trainer, Robert Garcia, will also work Margarito’s corner. “I’m still going to root for Manny,” said Donaire. “Robert and I go a long way. As much as I have a relationship with him, I’m a Filipino and would want nothing more than watching Manny succeed.”
