Nonito Donaire Sr. has been named to the team of Manny Pacquiao to help the Filipino ring icon wrest Argentine Lucas Matthysse’s WBA welterweight title in their clash at Axiata Arena in Malaysia on July 15.
“Donaire will serve as one of the assistant coaches,” said Pacquiao, who did two trial rounds with the mitts with the father of former world champion Nonito Jr. It was Donaire Sr. who trained and honed his son, who won world championships in three weight divisions.
“So far, so good. I am happy with my current team,” said Pacquiao, who took the weekend off to rest and relax.
This will be the first time in ages that the 39-year-old Pacquiao will not be handled by Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach.
Pacquiao wants an all-Filipino lineup in his bid to win his 11th world title against an opponent who has recorded stoppages in 36 of 39 wins and has lost only four times in his career.
Longtime friend and confidant Buboy Fernandez would still act as head coach along with assistant trainer Nonoy Neri.
Pacquiao will name his strength and conditioning coach soon. Justine Fortune held that job in the last Pacquiao fights.