Nonito Donaire and Japanese star Naoya “Monster” Inoue face off today for the mythical title of world’s best bantamweight and a cool $1-million at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan.
The Filipino-American is the underdog in the scheduled 12-rounder against the unbeaten Inoue, who packs an 18-0 card with 16 KOs.
But Donaire, a four-division champion who turns 37 on Nov. 16 is undaunted.
“I know exactly what I’m going to do inside that ring. The odds don’t matter,” said Donaire, who enters the ring with a 40-5 slate with 26 KOs.
“This is the best of the best and this is everything a fighter works for. I’ve been through it all (before). It’s another step towards being undisputed (champion).”
This 118-lb clash will serve as the finals of the World Boxing Super Series, a tournament featuring the world’s finest bantamweights.
Inoue, however, feels that Donaire stands on equal footing with him.
“I’m not seeing Nonito as the underdog. There’s no difference between us. As far as boxing is concerned, there’s nothing to expect but the greatest fight ever. If I am victorious tomorrow night, this will be a very big step towards a bright future,” said the power-hitting Inoue, who is more than ten years younger.
Inoue is a -1000 favorite ($1,000 wins $100) and Donaire a huge underdog at +500 ($100 wins $500). (Nick Giongco)
