[Boxing] Donaire vs Tsutsumi for WBA Bantamweight Title Dec. 17

[bisdak40]

I saw a video of Donaire talking that he is willing to take any fights as long as they call his name. And even if he is already old and could be out of his prime already, I think the heart and motivation is still with him and so he is willing to take that risk. And in this fight, he will have a change to crack at the belt again so for sure he is all go for this name and his opponent might not be as good as what others says specially that we haven't heard his name. And since he is the underdog here, it's good to see that his supporters and backers here pulling that trigger to bet on him to win by ML as the return is huge.

Donaire has only a few fights left in him, and this one could be his last if the outcome doesn’t go his way. It’s tough to watch him risk becoming just a stepping stone for younger prospects, but that’s the reality of the sport. At this stage, he can fight anyone, yet the motivation is largely financial—age has taken its toll. Unlike Pacquiao, whose passion for boxing still burns brightly, Donaire’s situation is different. His cash flow isn’t on the same level as Manny’s, so every fight matters not just for legacy, but for livelihood.

So, today is fight day and as promised i've already bet for Donaire to win by decision. A bit risky bet but it worth the money as i always support my compatriot in his every fight.

[Dave1]

I saw a video of Donaire talking that he is willing to take any fights as long as they call his name. And even if he is already old and could be out of his prime already, I think the heart and motivation is still with him and so he is willing to take that risk. And in this fight, he will have a change to crack at the belt again so for sure he is all go for this name and his opponent might not be as good as what others says specially that we haven't heard his name. And since he is the underdog here, it's good to see that his supporters and backers here pulling that trigger to bet on him to win by ML as the return is huge.

Donaire has only a few fights left in him, and this one could be his last if the outcome doesn’t go his way. It’s tough to watch him risk becoming just a stepping stone for younger prospects, but that’s the reality of the sport. At this stage, he can fight anyone, yet the motivation is largely financial—age has taken its toll. Unlike Pacquiao, whose passion for boxing still burns brightly, Donaire’s situation is different. His cash flow isn’t on the same level as Manny’s, so every fight matters not just for legacy, but for livelihood.

So, today is fight day and as promised i've already bet for Donaire to win by decision. A bit risky bet but it worth the money as i always support my compatriot in his every fight.

And they both make the weight, so everything is set. Goodluck to your bet. And at 43 years old, we can only wish that Donaire can still pull the trigger, and that left hook or the power behind it will still be there so that fans can relieved his big wins with that left hook that knockout most of the top bantamweight during his reign as a champion.

I haven't pull the trigger to bet on this game, but definitely will watch it in whatever means possible just going to our favorite Facebook and hope that there will be some that are going to share this fight live.

[Yaunfitda]

I saw a video of Donaire talking that he is willing to take any fights as long as they call his name. And even if he is already old and could be out of his prime already, I think the heart and motivation is still with him and so he is willing to take that risk. And in this fight, he will have a change to crack at the belt again so for sure he is all go for this name and his opponent might not be as good as what others says specially that we haven't heard his name. And since he is the underdog here, it's good to see that his supporters and backers here pulling that trigger to bet on him to win by ML as the return is huge.

Donaire has only a few fights left in him, and this one could be his last if the outcome doesn’t go his way. It’s tough to watch him risk becoming just a stepping stone for younger prospects, but that’s the reality of the sport. At this stage, he can fight anyone, yet the motivation is largely financial—age has taken its toll. Unlike Pacquiao, whose passion for boxing still burns brightly, Donaire’s situation is different. His cash flow isn’t on the same level as Manny’s, so every fight matters not just for legacy, but for livelihood.

So, today is fight day and as promised i've already bet for Donaire to win by decision. A bit risky bet but it worth the money as i always support my compatriot in his every fight.

That is obvious, Donaire is in the lower weight class so the money is not as huge compare to the heavier classes that Manny Pacquiao campaign. But I still think that he and his wife might have save some for their future as there has been a feud between Donaire Sr and Jr before when talking about the money. But as champion, as you have said, there could still be a few fights with them and that could be the motivating factor for him to continue to fight and still earn a good to decent money because of his name. And then when he wins here, then he has to defend it next year and his career somewhat extended.

[bisdak40]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

[Oasisman]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

He's done well for his age, being able to go head-to-head against younger opponent. That was a close fight, both delivered heavy blows and made some significant damages against each other. However, there is always an advantage playing at home. Even Donaire thought he'd won 2 more rounds against his opponent, some fans thought so as well. But then again that was a close fight. If only Donaire had enough time in round 4, he could've finished the match or made a huge damage and held an advantage on the remainder of the match.

[FinneysTrueVision]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

Donaire looked like his younger self in the early rounds. He only started showing his age when Tsutsumi began to apply pressure. Donaire’s pace slowed and he was taking more damage in the middle and late rounds. If Donaire had been several years younger, Tsutsumi wouldn’t have stood a chance. Fortunately for him, Donaire is 43, which allowed him to edge out a decision.

[ultrloa]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

Donaire looked like his younger self in the early rounds. He only started showing his age when Tsutsumi began to apply pressure. Donaire’s pace slowed and he was taking more damage in the middle and late rounds. If Donaire had been several years younger, Tsutsumi wouldn’t have stood a chance. Fortunately for him, Donaire is 43, which allowed him to edge out a decision.

Early round really looks promising to him, but unfortunately he didn't get the other rounds which is crucial for Tsutsumi's victory. Well as expected he's aged fighter and we could really see a huge decline in his performance.

Yeah if he's young or at his 30's I could say that he's so capable to defeat Tsutsumi. Prime Donaire is scary since he's capable to defeat all of his opponent. But fans already understood the situation since he don't have to prove his self anymore, Donaire earned a legendary status already and I think he's just getting this fight and maybe the other ones in future for just financial reasons.

[fullfitlarry]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

Donaire looked like his younger self in the early rounds. He only started showing his age when Tsutsumi began to apply pressure. Donaire’s pace slowed and he was taking more damage in the middle and late rounds. If Donaire had been several years younger, Tsutsumi wouldn’t have stood a chance. Fortunately for him, Donaire is 43, which allowed him to edge out a decision.

Early round really looks promising to him, but unfortunately he didn't get the other rounds which is crucial for Tsutsumi's victory. Well as expected he's aged fighter and we could really see a huge decline in his performance.

Yeah if he's young or at his 30's I could say that he's so capable to defeat Tsutsumi. Prime Donaire is scary since he's capable to defeat all of his opponent. But fans already understood the situation since he don't have to prove his self anymore, Donaire earned a legendary status already and I think he's just getting this fight and maybe the other ones in future for just financial reasons.

Right, his age shows in the middle to the championship rounds and then Donaire hitting hit and damages showing into his face that could slow him down. But a prime Donaire is very different, hand speed and his left hook.

Although he could take punches, but in early years he has a good defense too and willing to engage. But I guess this could really be a sign for him to retire for good and take this last paycheck.

[cryptomaniac_xxx]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

He's done well for his age, being able to go head-to-head against younger opponent. That was a close fight, both delivered heavy blows and made some significant damages against each other. However, there is always an advantage playing at home. Even Donaire thought he'd won 2 more rounds against his opponent, some fans thought so as well. But then again that was a close fight. If only Donaire had enough time in round 4, he could've finished the match or made a huge damage and held an advantage on the remainder of the match.

So what you are saying is that there could be possibility that he is being robbed because the fight is in Japan?

I haven't watch the full fight yet, but looking at the scores, at least 1 judge favor Donaire, the other one is a close score and it could go either way if only Donaire didn't fade specially in the championship rounds of the fight.

But judge surely is watching a different fight as he put the Japanese way ahead in the scores and that looks questionable. Nevertheless, I think Donaire has accepted his defeat and says that he will not retire yet.

[dimonstration]

So what you are saying is that there could be possibility that he is being robbed because the fight is in Japan?

I haven't watch the full fight yet, but looking at the scores, at least 1 judge favor Donaire, the other one is a close score and it could go either way if only Donaire didn't fade specially in the championship rounds of the fight.

But judge surely is watching a different fight as he put the Japanese way ahead in the scores and that looks questionable. Nevertheless, I think Donaire has accepted his defeat and says that he will not retire yet.

Judgers having a biased decision is not new since it’s proven in the past matches that this can happened.

I’m sure the the boxing organizers just want Japanese crowd for a much better ticket sales but there’s always a doubt on decision making like this one when it comes to close match that’s why matches shouldn’t be done on home country of 1 player.

I believe Donaire should retired same with MP since they are too old and nothing to prove. They are just collecting loses and squeeze more money instead of glory.

[xLays]

Donaire lost the fight via split decision. I wasn’t able to watch it live, but I did catch some highlights on YouTube, and it looked like a strong performance from Donaire, who managed to go the distance against the younger Tsutsumi. The judges scored the bout 115–113 and 117–111 in favor of Tsutsumi, while Robert Hoyle had it 116–112 for Donaire. In his post-fight interview, Donaire said he would continue fighting if opportunities arise and clarified that he has not yet considered retirement.

He's done well for his age, being able to go head-to-head against younger opponent. That was a close fight, both delivered heavy blows and made some significant damages against each other. However, there is always an advantage playing at home. Even Donaire thought he'd won 2 more rounds against his opponent, some fans thought so as well. But then again that was a close fight. If only Donaire had enough time in round 4, he could've finished the match or made a huge damage and held an advantage on the remainder of the match.

So what you are saying is that there could be possibility that he is being robbed because the fight is in Japan?

I haven't watch the full fight yet, but looking at the scores, at least 1 judge favor Donaire, the other one is a close score and it could go either way if only Donaire didn't fade specially in the championship rounds of the fight.

But judge surely is watching a different fight as he put the Japanese way ahead in the scores and that looks questionable. Nevertheless, I think Donaire has accepted his defeat and says that he will not retire yet.

This is all over my news feed and yes most of my countrymen are saying that Nonito Donaire was robbed in that fight.
Of course, since he is our countryman that reaction or comments is expected. However, I haven’t seen people from other countries saying that the fight was fixed.
In my opinion, as a fellow countryman of Donaire the decision was reasonable. There were moments in the fight when Tsutsumi clearly had the advantage. You can also see it in the outcome both of them took a lot of damage and their faces show how tough the fight really was. lol

[bisdak40]

He's done well for his age, being able to go head-to-head against younger opponent. That was a close fight, both delivered heavy blows and made some significant damages against each other. However, there is always an advantage playing at home. Even Donaire thought he'd won 2 more rounds against his opponent, some fans thought so as well. But then again that was a close fight. If only Donaire had enough time in round 4, he could've finished the match or made a huge damage and held an advantage on the remainder of the match.

Japan was once notorious for questionable decisions in boxing, but I don’t believe that’s the case in today’s era. With the sport growing rapidly in Japan and the country already producing world champions, they have no reason to tarnish their reputation with controversy.
The fight itself was very close. Watching the replay, I can understand why Donaire fans might feel he won. However, his trademark explosiveness has clearly faded. If Donaire were younger, Tsutsumi’s aggressive style likely wouldn’t have lasted twelve rounds against him. Still, the reality is what it is.
Both fighters deserve congratulations for delivering an amazing bout. For Tsutsumi, this victory is a significant milestone—his first win over a big-name opponent like Donaire, and a feather in the cap of his young career.

[fullfitlarry]

According to the Donaire's,

“I’ve emailed the WBA (but) with the holidays, I’m not sure when we will hear back,” said Donaire’s wife Rachel. “Nonito watched the fight (on video) today and we believe he did enough to win.” Rachel quoted Compubox’ assessment of the fight: “Donaire, the effective aggressor and harder shot-for-shot hitter, was more active (59.7 punches per round to Tsutsumi’s 54.3) and prevailed, 79-64 in landed power shots as well as 29 percent-22 percent in power accuracy.”

https://www.philstar.com/about-us/sports/2025/12/30/2497710/donaire-awaits-wba-order

But not sure if the decision should be overturn though, perhaps the best thing is that the WBA will order a rematch and maybe fight in a middle ground and not in Japan as there could still be some questionable calls again.

[bisdak40]

According to the Donaire's,

“I’ve emailed the WBA (but) with the holidays, I’m not sure when we will hear back,” said Donaire’s wife Rachel. “Nonito watched the fight (on video) today and we believe he did enough to win.” Rachel quoted Compubox’ assessment of the fight: “Donaire, the effective aggressor and harder shot-for-shot hitter, was more active (59.7 punches per round to Tsutsumi’s 54.3) and prevailed, 79-64 in landed power shots as well as 29 percent-22 percent in power accuracy.”

https://www.philstar.com/about-us/sports/2025/12/30/2497710/donaire-awaits-wba-order

But not sure if the decision should be overturn though, perhaps the best thing is that the WBA will order a rematch and maybe fight in a middle ground and not in Japan as there could still be some questionable calls again.

I came across this news on my social media feed. Honestly, I had Donaire winning the fight, but I admit I’m biased since I’m Filipino like him. Still, the judges did their job, and Tsutsumi earned their decision. At this stage of his career, Donaire’s opportunities are limited, so the best move is either to ask for a rematch or find another opponent willing to face him. There’s no need for sour-graping—the judges have spoken, and the winner is Tsutsumi.

Locking this thread this thread now as it's already over a week since the fight. As usual thank you for your post and comments that makes this thread alive.