WBO bantamweight champion John Riel Casimero could fight once again this year on December 11.
The 32-year-old Filipino squeaked out a split decision win against elusive Cuban Guillermo Rigondeaux earlier this month. The result sparked some outrage believing that Casimero had been fortunate to notch up the 31st victory of his career.
“He was just running and not fighting,” he said of ‘Rigo’ afterwards.
Attention now turns to his next fight and Rappler report that it could come against Nonito Donaire, who had been slated to face Casimero last month. The WBC champion pulled out of their contest following concerns at Casimero’s willingness to be involved in VADA drug testing and a public feud which saw Donaire’s wife Rachel dragged into affairs much to the anger of her husband.
“I STAND for VADA 24/7/365 testing for ALL boxers,” Donaire said in a statement. “This should never be refused or delayed. I stand against BULLYING in any form. I STAND against the disrespect and ABUSE of women and children physically, mentally and emotionally. AND I STAND against misogynistic culture.”
The heated rivalry between Casimero and Donaire could now lead to their unification taking place this year after all on December 11. Rappler report that negotiations are underway and that the winner will get an opportunity to face the ‘Monster’ Naoya Inoue in 2022. Donaire has already faced the Japanese wrecking ball but proved to be a worthy adversary when the two men clashed in November 2019 during a World Boxing Super Series final. Inoue came out on top on that occasion but such was Donaire’s performance a rematch has been speculated ever since that night in Saitama.
Main image: Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions