Nonito Donaire On His Absence From Boxing: “It Feels Like a Part of You is Missing.”
- Matthew Brown
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
06/10/2025
Filipino boxing icon Nonito Donaire is ready to write another chapter in his legendary career. After nearly two years away from the ring and several delays, Donaire (42-8, 28 KOs) will return on Friday, June 13, to face Chilean contender Andres Campos (17-2-1, 6 KOs) for the Interim WBA Bantamweight Championship at Casino Buenos Aires in Argentina, headlining the annual WBA KO to Drugs Festival.
In an exclusive interview with Brunch Boxing, Donaire opened up about his long road back to the squared circle—and the deep emotional pull that kept him tethered to the sport even when it seemed like his time had passed.
“I’m living in the moment and enjoying the opportunity,” Donaire said. “I’ve been trying to get a fight since December of 2023, but it’s strange a lot of these fighters avoid me even though I’m the oldest in the division!”
Now 42 years old, Donaire has accomplished more than most fighters dare dream: world titles in four weight divisions, highlight-reel knockouts, and a Hall of Fame résumé. But despite that legacy, he’s struggled to find willing opponents.
“So I was really excited to get back in the ring but soon after the opponent fell through,” Donaire said. “It took a while to secure another fighter but all the while I’ve been training and sparring.”
Donaire hasn’t fought since July 2023, but he’s remained physically and mentally prepared for the moment his phone rang. While some fighters lose their edge during extended layoffs, Donaire insists he never disconnected from the grind—it’s simply part of who he is.
“A lot of people wonder why I’m fighting, if it’s because of money. It’s far from that,” Donaire emphasized. “I’ve invested and created sustainable income and our family isn’t flashy or into all that stuff. It is, if you really love the sport, I mean really love it, it feels like a part of you is missing. I can’t explain the rush, the adrenaline, and excitement it is to be in that ring. You have to be a fighter to your bone to understand the feeling.”
And on Friday night in Buenos Aires, the “Filipino Flash” will once again feel complete.
His next opponent, Andres Campos, may not be a household name, but Donaire isn’t taking the challenge lightly. The 27-year-old Chilean comes in with a respectable record and a reputation for toughness.
“I’ve watched Campos and he’s a hard hitter,” Donaire noted. “He presents problems I’ll have to break down like his high guard, so I think it’ll be a fun match.”
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