LOS ANGELES—Filipino world title hopeful Mark Barriga got premium pointers from one of boxing’s most respected champions on Friday as he shoots to win the International Boxing Federation minimumweight title at Staples Center.
Moments after conquering the scales, Barriga received tips from world bantamweight king Nonito Donaire, who reminded Barriga to believe in himself and act as though he is already an accomplished fighter.
“Sometimes, whenever a fighter who doesn’t have any experience fighting abroad fights outside the Philippines, they lose their confidence. Be courageous and confident and don’t’ doubt yourself,” Donaire said during his rare encounter with Barriga at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
“You are as good as anyone that’s why you are here,” said Donaire to Barriga, stressing that bringing an ample amount of bravado into the ring is crucial.
“Don’t hesitate and don’t doubt yourself. You can do it,” he added.
Donaire is a four-division world champion, regarded as one of the top five Filipino champions of all-time.
Barriga meets Carlos Licona, a Mexican-American, underneath the Deontay Wilder-Tyson Fury world heavyweight war.
Barriga had a successful amateur career but this will only be his second pro fight outside the Philippines. (Nick Giongco)
