Nonito Donaire (R) celebrates after knocking out French boxer Nordine Oubaali after winning the Bantamweight World Championship on May 29, 2021 in Carson, California. (Photo by Patrick T. FALLON / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines — Nonito Donaire has signed with Probellum, a boxing promotion headed by former Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer.
Probellum, which officially launch last month, made the announcement Tuesday. The agency did not disclose the terms of the deal.
“Richard Schaefer has always been a ‘fighter’s first’ promoter,” said Nonito Donaire.”I am convinced that with his vision, leadership skills and passion for the fighters he will elevate the sport and most importantly continue to empower fighters. I am proud to be part of Team Probellum and continue my relationship and friendship with Richard.”
“In my past 14 years in active boxing, I have never known a person like Richard,” said Rachel Donaire, Nonito’s manager and wife. “For 20 years, he has made his name as the one who stood by the fighters.
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Donaire (41-6, 27KOs) is one of the most accomplished fighters in his era having won world titles in four different divisions.
At 38 years old, he became the oldest bantamweight world champion after he knocked out Frenchman Nordine Oubaali last May to win the WBC title.
“Nonito and Rachel Donaire are not just the best husband and wife or fighter and trainer team in boxing today but most certainly in the history of the sport,” said Schaefer, who was at the helm of Golden Boy Promotions for 14 years.
“Nonito is one of the GREATEST fighters in boxing. A future Hall of Famer and four-division and nine-time world champion, but it is not just his talent in the ring but his personality, charisma and values outside of the ring which make him the champion and role model he is.”
Schaefer has grand plans for Donaire, whose first fight under Probellum is expected to be announced soon.
“I am fortunate to call him my friend. It is a pleasure and an honor for me to have him join Probellum and I can’t wait to help him unify the bantamweight division and conquer many more world titles.”