Four-division world champion Nonito Donaire has what it takes to become a great boxing commentator if he can further hone his skill in sports broadcasting on television and on radio. Donaire was guest commentator alongside veteran print and broadcast journalist Ronnie Nathanielz during the AJ ?Bazooka? Banal and Thai Pungluang Sor Singyu fight held at the Mall of Asia in Manila over the weekend. In the TV coverage broadcast over ABS-CBN Channel 2 Sunday, Donaire gave television audience a limited but well-thought commentary as the fight progresses. Donaire shared his boxing knowledge by giving inputs on the style of the Thai fighter and how Banal should act to neutralize his opponent’s offensive stance. Boxing observers watching the fight on television say if Banal could hear Donaire’s observations and commentaries during the fight, he could have changed his fighting style to neutralize his Thai opponent and possibly won the fight. Although his comments were brief and concise, knowledgeable boxing fans would know Donaire commentaries were based on his knowledge of the sport and his actual experience as a fighter. Donaire, who trashed Toshiaki Nishioka of Japan last October 13 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California via TKO, has recently been billed as the next Manny Pacquiao for his colorful achievements as a boxer and now an aspiring movie star. Ranked No.5 in the Ring’s pound-for-pound list, Donaire (30-1-0,19 KOs), is a candidate for WBO Fighter of the Year honor. He has fought three top opponents this year which include a knockout win over Japan’s Toshiaki Nishota and very impressive victories over Jeffrey Mathebula and Wilfredo Vasquez. Reacting to questions on the possibility of a fight against compatriot eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao, Donaire said it isn’t true. “As a fighter, we are not afraid to fight anyone. But we are friends, and it has to be mutually agreed. But we don’t seek for it, and it’s not in my head,” Donaire told ABS-CBN News. Like Pacquiao, the “Filipino Flash” is known for his hand speed, power punches and counter-punching skill. In the last few years, Donaire has moved through different weight classes, from flyweight to super bantamweight, capturing titles in four divisions. Donaire is set to face Jorge Arce of Mexico on December 15 but his promoter, Bob Arum said he is still working on various details of the fight. Official announcement is expected within the week.
