Donaire unconcerned by Belfast’s hostile pro-Frampton crowd

Former four-weight World Champion Nonito Donaire is confident that he can overcome Belfast’s staunchly pro-Carl Frampton crowd on April 21st.

‘Filpino Flash’ takes on Carl Frampton at the SSE Arena next week, with the WBO Interim world featherweight title on the line.

”Frampton and I are both Champions and our fight deserves to be a 12-round title match,” he told The Philippine Star. “I was told that the fight was upgraded a week or two ago and I think it’s great. It’s a reflection of how big this fight is.”

Home favourite Frampton has built a passionate following in Northern Ireland, but his experienced opponent is not concerned.

”I know the fans will go all out to cheer for Frampton in his hometown but that’s not a problem for me. Once the fight starts, my mind will just be focused on winning and I won’t hear the crowd.”

On Friday, Donaire will leave his Las Vegas training camp for Belfast having sparred over 80 rounds with five or six different boxers.

”I had to cut down sparring long rounds to avoid peaking too soon but now, I’m back to sparring 10 to 12 rounds. Frampton’s not like anyone I’ve fought before. He reminds me a little of Fernando Montiel whom I knocked out with a single left hook in the second round in 2011,” continued the 35-year-old.

”Frampton’s more of a straight-up kind of fighter and unlike Montiel, I don’t think he’ll give me a wide opening for my left hook. He’s both a boxer and puncher. Whatever style he’ll use, I’m ready so bring it on.”