The Manila Bulletin reports that Bob Arum and Top Rank are still waiting on top bantamweight star Nonito Donaire to get in touch. Donaire attempted to leave Top Rank for Golden Boy Promotions after his February blowout of Fernando Montiel, but an arbitrator ruled that Donaire's contract with Top Rank was still valid.
During the dispute and controversy, Arum made some nasty remarks about Donaire's wife, Rachel, and you can't help but think that that has to still be playing a role here. Donaire is obviously a valued property in boxing, and swallowing his pride to put money in Arum's pocket seems like it would be a tough way to continue a career.
But the bantamweight division is hot, and though it might pain him to do so, getting in the ring and fighting -- when he would be a favorite against any of the name fighters in the division -- would be best for his career. He can still leave Top Rank when his deal is up, and signing with Golden Boy would open a potential fight with Abner Mares, in addition to potential matchups with Joseph Agbeko, Vic Darchinyan, or the other top stars.
There's still no timetable for Donaire's return, but he hasn't been hiding. Donaire attended the Ward vs Abraham fight last night, and recently was ringside as a photographer for the April 29 edition of Friday Night Fights.
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