Donaire eyes IBO world title vs Frampton of UK

Who between Nonito Donaire Jr. (left) and Carl Frampton will snag the WBO interim world featherweight belt? GETTY IMAGES

MANILA – Nonito Donaire Jr. will face Carl Frampton of United Kingdom today as he aims for the WBO interim world featherweight title at the SSE Arena in Belftast, Northern Ireland.

Both fighters showed their readiness for the world title bout after reaching the required weight. Donaire tipped the scales at 125.5 pounds while Frampton submitted 125 pounds.

A victory will be huge for Donaire’s career as it could possibly lead to him getting back to the top of the WBO featherweight division while a defeat could be a huge blow.

Mas malakas pa ako kay Frampton, mas mabilis pa ko, mas matangkad at saka ang ano lang nila ay may edad na’ko kaya nilagay ako underdog,” Donaire said in an interview. “But it’s just a matter of working hard.”

The Filipino said he will hang up the gloves only if “my skills had been diminished” and “it’s not safe for me.”

“But as of now I am capable of beating a lot of the guys – big, big chance of winning the fight,” Donaire stressed.

For his part, Frampton – despite being tipped by many as the favored fighter – is not taking chances against the Talibon, Bohol native.

“I have a lot of respect for Donaire,” Frampton said. “He’s a quality fighter.”

“In terms of accolades, he’s (Donaire) accomplished more than any other fighter I’ve ever fought. He’s a future Hall of Famer. Hopefully, I can put myself in that bracket one day,” said the British man.

The 35-year-old Donaire is set to parade a 38-4-0 win-loss-draw record, including 24 stoppage wins, while the 31-year-old Frampton has 24-1-0, with 14 knockout victories./PN

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