Donaire’s title fight with Montiel in jeopardy

MANILA—Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire’s planned WBC-WBO title fight against Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel is in jeopardy following reports that the hard-hitting Mexican champion was injured in a recent motorcycle accident. Details were still sketchy, but Montiel himself said that he had apparently fractured his lower leg. The accident is expected to sideline Montiel for the rest of the year. It will also render his scheduled February title defense against Donaire most unlikely, according to Scott Heritage of Examiner.com yesterday. “If the fracture isn’t as bad as it appears from the picture, then a February fight might still be workable,” said Heritage. “But given how dangerous Donaire is, Montiel might want a longer time to prepare.” Donaire has been calling out the big names such as Montiel and Jorge Arce, among others, but top-notch promoter Bob Arum hasn’t been able to deliver on Donaire’s request. His scheduled clash with former world champion Wladimir Sidokerenko in December was supposed to be his warmup bout against the rangy Montiel in February.