Garcia Backs Doniare

Trainer and former world champion, Robert Garcia, says Nonito ‘The Filipino Flash’ Doniare is in “real good shape’ as he prepares for his 21 July title defence possibly against former World Super Flyweight champion, Cristian Mijares or IBF Super Bantamweight champion, Jeffrey Mathebula of South Africa.

Garcia said that he had visited Doniare who had begun training two weeks ago, and “he is in real good shape, solid, very strong.”

He said he would join Doniare who trains at the Top Rank gym in Las Vegas once the date and opponent are finalised and that he would travel to Vegas to personally handle Doniare’s training.

Garcia said he didn’t have any idea of who Top Rank and Doniare’s manager, Cameron Dunkin have picked as an opponent.

He added that if it is Mijares it would be a tough fight because Mijares is a great champion.”

Garcia emphasised that Doniare is “ready for anybody. ” He doesn’t make those decisions. It’s Cameron Dunkin who is the best in the business so he knows whom he’s going to match him (Doniare) up with. Cameron and Top Rank do their job and we’ll be ready to do the same,” he said.

At the same time Garcia commended Bernabe Concepcion who lost by a 7th round TKO to his undefeated Featherweight and younger brother, Mikey Garcia (28-0, 24 KO’s).

He said Concepcion had definitely improved since his previous fight. He said Concepcion “started with a good jab but Mikey is at a different level even though his opponents are good. he makes it looks easy.” He said Concepcion “is not an easy opponent and he is a great fighter.”