World Boxing Super Series: Nonito Donaire starts new title reign

Nonito Donaire (photo courtesy - Francisco Perez/Ringstar Sports)
Nonito Donaire (photo courtesy – Francisco Perez/Ringstar Sports)

Former four-division world champion Nonito Donaire (38-4, 24 KOs) returned to the ring and scored a dominant unanimous decision victory over Mexico’s Ruben Garcia Hernandez (22-3-1, 9 KOs) in their 10-round fight for the WBC Silver Featherweight World Title.

“I boxed very well, which is something I haven’t done in a long time,” said Donaire. “I moved my legs well and maintained it throughout the whole fight. I’ve always been an aggressive boxer but this time I used my jab and combinations. I had the urge to just brawl and I felt like I hurt him. But ultimately I did a great job showing versatility in my game.”

Donaire was able to control the fight with his speed and movement that was unmatched by his opponent. Hernandez was game and continued to come forward all night, but was unable to disrupt Donaire.

“Nonito was very smooth and moved around well,” said Hernandez. “I couldn’t get to him because of that. He adjusted to everything I did. It was a fair decision at the end of the night. I thought he was going to come to brawl but he changed the strategy on me. I thought I fought hard and I’m going to work hard to get back in the ring.”

Hernandez’s aggressiveness was used against him by Donaire, who waited for his charging opponent and was able to pick him off with an array of hooks and uppercuts.

After 10-rounds all three judges saw the fight in favor of Donaire by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 97-93.

“It’s a great pleasure to be part of the Ringstar Sports family,” said Donaire. “I’m grateful for this opportunity and I know there is more to come. I’m going to get back in there and keep showing what I can do.”