Nonito Donaire: Frampton fight is NOT 50-50

The bookies have Carl Frampton odds-on to beat Nonito Donaire in Belfast on Saturday night but, if ‘The Filipino Flash’ is to be believed, they have made a serious mistake.

The experienced boxing star has been respectful of ‘The Jackal’ in the build-up to the clash and has generally sold the ‘two talented fighters heading into last chance saloon’ line throughout the lead-in. 

However, as fight night approaches, the four-weight world champion gave an indication of how confident of victory he truly is. The 35-year-old goes into the clash as an underdog but believes he should be seen as top dog.

Indeed, Donaire is adamant he has a 70 percent chance of defeating the home favourite on the top of a mouthwatering card at the SSE Odyssey Arena this weekend. 

“I don’t even think it’s a 50-50 fight,” Donaire told The Philstar. 

“I’m confident of beating Frampton. I’ve trained hard for this fight and I’m in the best shape of my life. I’ve got a good feeling about this. I figure my chances are 70 percent to win.”

Such is the experience of Donaire, some are suggesting he is essentially training himself for a fight that is certainly of the crossroad kind for him.

Clarence ‘Bones’ Adams has joined the backroom team and while he may address the Future Hall of Famer between rounds. he doesn’t seem to have filled the role of head coach or trainer. 

“Bones gives me a good visual of Frampton,” said Donaire. “He’s got the same size and build as Frampton so when we do mitts, it’s a nice simulation.”

“I’ve watched three or four of Frampton’s fights. I’ve studied his movements in both the Leo Santa Cruz fights where he won once and lost once. I’ve also studied his last fight against [Horacio] Garcia who knocked him down in the seventh round.”

“Frampton is both a boxer and puncher. I’m open to whatever style he uses. My strategy will depend on what defence he shows me. I can be aggressive or patient. I can break him down bit by bit or go on the attack right away. I’ll use a variety of styles.”