by Ronnie Nathanielsz

The opponent of Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire who returns to the ring in late October or early November will be known by Tuesday in the US.

Donaire’s manager Cameron Dunkin confirmed in a conversation with BoxingScene.com/Manila Standard that “we will definitely know tomorrow (Tuesday in the US) who the opponent will be.”

Dunkin said three options had been given to Donaire by Top Rank Promotions and it was up to the former WBO and Ring Magazine super bantamweight champion to make a choice.

Arum himself told us he had given Donaire the choice of a rematch with Guillermo Rigondeaux who won the title from Donaire last April 13 at the Radio City Musical Hall in New York, former four division world champion Vic Darchinyan from whom Donaire won the IBO/IBF flyweight title with a spectacular 5thround knockout on July 7, 2007 or to move up to featherweight and face No.1 ranked Orlando Cruz of Mexico.

Donaire said that while he was ready to face anybody they put in front of him he was most keen on a rematch with Rigondeaux, the former Cuban two-time Olympic gold medalist.



Donaire said “I want a rematch (with Rigondeaux) more than anything else right now. I’m training right now and feeling good.”



He said his recovery from surgery on his shoulder because of a bone spur and two torn ligaments after the Rigondeaux fight is going well.



Darchinyan told us over a week ago that he would love to get a rematch with Donaire which he has been aching for since his loss to the classy Filipino , but indicated he preferred a September date which won’t suit Donaire since he is still recovering from surgery on his shoulder.