BRIDGEPORT, CONN (July 7, 2007) — Ask newly-crowned IBF/IBO flyweight champion NONITO DONAIRE if he has a lucky number and he may respond with 07-07-07…the date he pulled off the “upset of the year” by starching the previously undefeated and invincible defending champion Vic Darchinyan with the “knockout of the year.”
Donaire (18-1, 11 KOs), known as “The Filipino Flash,” is a native of General Santos City in The Philippines, now living in San Leandro, Calif. Moving down from his familiar stomping grounds as a super flyweight, Donaire extended his six-year winning streak to 17 fights landing a left hook to the jaw of Darchinyan (28-1, 22 KOs), ending the fight, and Darchinyan’s 2 1/2 year (including six successful defenses) title reign at :28 of round five. Donaire is promoted by Gary Shaw and managed by Cameron Dunkin.
“For all my people in The Philippines who didn’t believe in me before, I hope you are believers in me now,” exclaimed a joyous Donaire. “I worked so hard for this fight and I always knew if I were given the opportunity to fight Darchinyan I would beat him, even if it meant me going down to a weight I hadn’t fought at in many years. I am proud to be a Filipino and I hope my people are just as proud of me as their new world champion. We will move forward together defending this title.”
The fight was broadcast live by SHOWTIME from the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, Conn.
