Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire Jr. has reignited his championship hopes with a gritty ninth-round technical decision win over Chilean contender Andres Campos on Sunday, June 15 (Manila time) in Buenos Aires, Argentina. With the victory, Donaire claimed the World Boxing Association (WBA) interim bantamweight title, marking a triumphant return to the ring after nearly a year of inactivity.
The 42-year-old boxing legend, a former four-division world champion, last fought in July 2023, when he lost to Alexandro Santiago. That defeat led many to question whether Donaire would retire. However, the Filipino veteran silenced his critics, proving that his speed, power, and ring IQ are still formidable assets.
Donaire sustained a deep cut above his right eyebrow due to an accidental clash of heads, but the injury didn’t stop him from dominating much of the bout. Judges scored the fight 88-83, 87-84, and 87-84 — all in favor of Donaire — before the ringside physician called an end to the contest midway through the ninth round.
Now holding a record of 43 wins (28 by KO) and eight losses, Donaire showed poise and precision throughout the fight. He dictated the pace early, using a stiff jab, well-timed counters, and punishing body shots to wear down Campos. Despite being 14 years younger, Campos struggled to match Donaire’s experience and tactical approach. Campos’s record now stands at 17-3-1 with six knockouts.
A strong opening round was marred by a head clash that hinted at the physical nature of the bout. Donaire, visibly affected by the contact, regrouped quickly and began landing clean, looping punches that repeatedly caught Campos off guard. While Campos had some success in exchanges, he never gained control of the fight.
In the ninth round, another head clash aggravated the cut above Donaire’s eye. With blood flowing and vision compromised, the ringside doctor determined it was unsafe to continue, leading to the technical decision in Donaire’s favor.
The victory marked Donaire’s first win since 2021 and puts him back in the mix for a full world title shot. With his performance in Argentina, the Filipino Flash proved that age is just a number — and that his quest for boxing greatness is far from over.