MANILA – Former world champion Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire was the picture of class following his unanimous decision loss to Carl Frampton in their featherweight showdown in Belfast on Saturday (early Sunday in Manila).
Frampton put on a show in his hometown, and won with scores of 117-111 across the board. In the process, he earned the interim WBO featherweight championship.
Donaire had no complaints about the scores and immediately hugged Frampton when the decision was announced. Backstage, he was again shown congratulating the younger fighter and saying "I'm cheering for you."
Frampton earned a shot at the WBO's regular belt, as well as the IBO featherweight belt, with his triumph.
"First of all, always want to thank God for keeping me safe in that ring. Not taking anything away from Frampton. He is an amazing fighter, smart and a tough mf," Donaire said on social media after his bout.
"Congratulations… may you continue to be on top," he added.
Donaire, who sustained his fifth career loss, also said that he intends to move back down in weight after a difficult campaign as a featherweight.
"My team, family, and Ringstar will have a meeting but I think it has already been predecided that although I have done my best to gain weight and keep my weight on and strong, it's best I move back down in weight," he said.
Donaire's biggest success came when he was a super bantamweight. As a featherweight, he has compiled a 2-2 win-loss record; one of those defeats was a stunning knockout at the hands of Nicholas Walters.
Still, Frampton was wary of Donaire's power and commended the Filipino star for his effort following their bout.
"Nonito Donaire was dangerous from start to finish. I stuck to the game plan and at times my boxing was beautiful," said Frampton, who was rocked by Donaire during the 11th round of the bout but stayed strong.
Donaire's record dropped to 38-5 with the result.
source: news.abs-cbn.com
