On this past Saturday night, Bernabe Concepcion passed a test of determination, while an even bigger test awaits him. Gerry Penalosa gave his all, only to wrongly receive nothing in return. Ciso Morales learned a lesson to never be too eager, and Nonito Donaire Jr. began his journey.
The level of opposition in Manuel Vargas was what was expected, but then again what did anyone really expect? As Vargas plainly said, he was there for the opportunity. Of course, Gerson Guerrero might have presented more of a challenge, but due to a last minute injury, he didn’t show up to fight. That is no ones fault, Nonito fought who was put in front of him and did what he had to do. Now it begins.
As I may quote a good friend of mine, DSource stated, ” If you can’t appreciate Donaire’s overall skill, talent and intellect in the boxing ring, then something is wrong with you“. Some may beg to differ, because they feel Donaire’s opponents have been somewhat mediocre compared to Donaire’s caliber. I have to agree on some level, because Nonito Donaire is so much more than what his record displays.
Nonito Donaire must move up from his class of 115 at Super Flyweight. It’s time to graduate from the class, that won’t give you as much recognition as the higher weight classes will. The Montiel’s, Hasegawa’s, Vasquez’s, and even the Lopez’s are waiting for you Nonito, although I doubt they are anticipating your eventual arrival. In contrast, the last person Nonito needs to entertain a fight with is Vic Darchinyan. He doesn’t need to position himself, back at the low level that is Vic Darchinyan. Why beat the same guy again and even worse than the first time? The trash talk is bothersome? Get over it; Vic Darchinyan’s trademark is his mouth. Nonito will not garner anything from beating a fighter he is supposed to, AGAIN.
Jorge Arce, wants some too? What’s the point? Nonito Donaire is world champion material, not the ” revive an older-tired-fighter’s career” champion.
A spot on the Pound-4-Pound rankings is indeed an accomplishment, but the chance to be the best P-4-P in the near future is not far away from Nonito Donaire. If I were Nonito, my message to the fighters in those higher divisions would be, “Want some? Come get some”, because it is just the beginning for the “Filipino Flash”. The right time is right now.
A great moment is waiting somewhere on the horizon. Nonito, it’s yours. Go get it.
