Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Last October Nonito Donaire suffered a devastating defeat against Nicholas Walters. The younger more powerful Jamaican KO’d the Filipino Flash in the 6^th round. In post fight interview Donaire considered retirement. Although it was painful for fans, he has done it all. No one would have to blame him if hung up his gloves. He was five-division world champion and the former WBA (Super) Featherweight champion. He was also a former IBF, WBO, The Ring Super Bantamweight, WBC, WBO Bantamweight, Interim WBA Super Flyweight, IBF and IBO Flyweight.

from left: Marc Pingris & Balls Channel Program Mktg Mngr Chris Wong. Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito has also earned the WBC Diamond Belt ‘created as an honorary championship exclusively to award the winner of a historic fight between two high-profile and elite boxers’. The ultra elite names of Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr, Bernard Hopkins, Jean Pascal and Sergey Kovalev have so far been the few who were awarded the prestigious Diamond Belt.

Nonito Donaire Jr used his jab more in this fight maximizing reach and height advantage. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

So when the announcement for PINOY PRIDE 30 DDAY came with Nonito co headlining it with Donnie Ahas Nietes vs Gilberto Parra, everyone knew what the fight meant for Donaire. If he lost again, it would be difficult to justify having to go on in a brutal sport that favors speed, strength and a certain amount of youth. Boxing pundits especially in the Philippines would have been happy with just Donaire winning via a decision. Thoughts of retirement came again saying if he lost to Prado it may well be his last fight.

William Prado landed a few jabs that did not do damage. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

William Prado of Brazil had a 22-5-1 record. 15 of those 22 victories were knockouts. So you couldn’t be careless with Prado who had proven knock out power.

from left: Buboy Villar & Direk Paul Soriano was ringside to promote their boxing film KID KULAFU showing April 15, 2015 in cinemas nationwide. / center in striped shirt: Moymoy Macasero was part of the team that performed ‘Filipinoflash’ walk out song along with Bassilyo and Crazymix. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015 seemed ready to explode as Nonito came out of the dug out to his own walk out music: Filipinoflash by Moymoy Macasero, Bassilyo and Crazymix.

Donaire’s jab gets through Prado’s defense. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The first round exhibited the improved strength and conditioning of Nonito. He landed the more powerful hooks to the body and head. Although Prado was firing off punches they did not seem to be as heavy. The Filipino also used his jab more maximizing his superior height and reach.

(left) William Prado’s face starts to swell as early as 1st round (right) Donaire lands killer left hook. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr used his jab more in this fight. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donaire pours on uppercuts as Prado turtles up. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

After the first minute of the second round Donaire had visibly staggered Prado. Cuts and swelling were visible in the Brazilian’s face. Referee Bruce McTavish was closely looking at Prado’s glassy eyes. Then came a series of uppercuts that stunned Prado and had him turtling up unable to ‘intelligently defend himself’. McTavish saw that Prado was just out on his feet getting hurt and immediately stopped the fight at the 2:16 mark of the second round. The win earned Donaire the vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt.

Prado’s face is cut and bloodied after barrage. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donaire lands brutal body shot while Prado no longer intelligently defending himself. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

More than Nonito earning the victory it was the convincing fashion with which he won. The powerful stoppage convinced everyone that Donaire still has the hunger and what it takes to win against the elite fighters again.

Ref McTavish has seen enough & stops the fight at the 2:16 mark of the 2nd round. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

This time however, winning isn’t about just titles or belts. It’s about something deeper, something he wants for younger people as an example. He said, “It’s the beginning of a mission. The mission coming here is not just becoming a world champion its inspiring people out there, inspiring kids to work hard to be better. Impossibility is out of the question. That’s the mission I’m fighting for. For somebody who was put down, somebody who hit rock bottom depression wasn’t something in my mind but to rise. That’s one thing I have being Filipino in my blood in my veins that I will always rise no matter what. Take me down 7 times and I will rise 8 times, a hundred times.”

Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: ABS CBN Head Integrated Sports Dino Laurena, ABS CBN Sports Consultant/Head of MNL Radio Div Peter Musngi, ALA Promotions Pres. & CEO Michael Aldeguer, Prince Albert Pagara (IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Champ), Donnie Nietes (WBO World Jr Flyweight Champ), Nonito Donaire Jr (NABF Super Bantamweight Champ) and Coach/trainer Nonito Donaire Sr. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sportscaster Ronnie Nathanielsz during the post fight press conference put the night in its proper historic perspective, “I think we need to congratulate ALA promotions and ABS CBN for putting together one of the greatest boxing cards in living memory. And they did it at the home of boxing the Araneta Coliseum. This is where Gabriel Flash Ellorde won his first World title on March 16, 1960. This is where Mohammed Ali fought Joe Frazier. And this is where Donnie Nietes and Nonito Donaire put their opponents to sleep.”

Donnie Nietes raises his hand in victory after he successfully defends his WBO World Jr Flyweight Belt for the 7th time. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donnie Nietes in turn successfully defended his WBO World Jr. Flyweight title against Gilberto Parra via 9^th round TKO. Prince Albert Pagara Retained his IBF Inter-Continental Super bantamweight title against Rodolfo Hernandez via 5^th round TKO. Both Nietes and Donaire were elevated to the Flash Ellorde Hall of Fame last March 25.

Prince Albert Pagara successfully defends his IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The strong support of his countrymen and fighting at the SMART Araneta Coliseum gave Donaire a boost, “They gave me a lot of energy. I think that’s why I knocked this guy out early. We’re trying to plan 4-6 rounds figure him out from that point on but because of the chanting because of the energy, I could feel that energy level going to my body. I had a lot of strength I was willing to go out there make it exciting for everybody. The chant was something truly amazing.”

Donaire pours on uppercuts as Prado turtles up. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ref Mctavish sees the damage suffered by Prado. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Asked to make an assessment of Prado he said, “Thing is you can always belong in the ring until you get caught with something good. One thing I knew he had a menacing jab. He was throwing the punches except that I was countering him with the overwhelming power I had over him. Then he succumbed to my power therefore he was discouraged. He could not make any move to recover. I just overwhelmed him with my power. We knew we had a lot of power. We knew this guy was a tough guy. My dad was saying be careful what punches he’ll throw. With being first we took away all his weapons. But we didn’t expect it for him to be down as fast as he did. You saw how tough he was. He didn’t go down.”

right: Prado smirks as ref Mctavish prepares to raise Nonito Donaire Jr’s hand. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

With his own performance, Nonito thought he could still improve, “I trained myself in defense and power. Strategy wise there were still something missing for me. There’s still that lack of follow up. I was only doing one punch at a time. I rate my performance probably 7 out of 10.”

Nonito Donaire Jr used his jab more in this fight. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The win though proved his current abilities, “It was a statement where Nonito Donaire is at. Meaning if I had trouble with him I wasn’t at that level. And you could see the difference in talent. There are prospects and up and coming guys and give everything that I have. I did show I was above that level. I think I’m ready to step up again which is the elite level. My power was just incredible if I put it up. But mainly I had a good jab. That’s something we’re gonna develop. Usually you could hit me because I’m right in front of you. So that’s one thing we’re very proud of tonight. I’m not getting hit and being effective at the same time. ”

Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donaire has expressed interest in fighting either WBC Super Bantamweight Champ Leo Sta. Cruz or WBA, WBO Super Bantam weight Champ Guillermo Rigondeaux. “We got to see where I’m at in terms of my ability. I feel we are still at the elite level and we can compete with guys like Rigondeux, Sta Cruz. So it depends on where I rank and it depends on what my manager and promoter are willing to do. For now next week come back to the gym and get ready for the next fight.”

3 champs from left: Nonito Donaire Jr (NABF Super Bantamweight Champ), Donnie Nietes (WBO World Jr Flyweight Champ) & Prince Albert Pagara (IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Champ). PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

A fan takes selfie with Ring Announcer Ted Lerner. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

On a personal note it was the first time that wife Rachel was not able to accompany him for a fight. The couple is anticipating the birth of their second son. She had to stay home on doctor’s orders because of her condition: placenta previa. Although its not life threatening to mother or child, staying home was a precaution the doctors insisted on. Otherwise she would have been ringside just like Donaire’s previous fights.

Diane Castillejo interviews Nonito Donaire Jr after win. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

This was also the first time Nonito was away from his wife and child for more than a month. He felt a small measure of the difficulties according to him that millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) experience being away from their families. That’s why he dedicated this win for them along with soldiers who sacrifice so much for their loved ones.

Nonito confers w dad and Coach Nonito Donaire Sr. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Thankful for the chance to fight at SMART Araneta Coliseum he added, “Being in front of everyone grabe. Just the chant, kaya sabi ng father ko na dala ako sa chant nila. I love the fact this is my home. I love the fact nandito mga taong nagbigay sakin ng support, prayers. So gusto ko ibigay lahat. Kaya nung nagchant sila I wanted to give it all and I did.”

PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY was truly a proud day for the Philippines. It was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr’s deadly right hook lands; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Ref Mctavish looks at Prado closely; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Donaire’s killer left hook; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao is joined by Nonito Donaire Jr. & Donnie Nietes in the Ellorde Hall of Fame and as WBC Diamond Belt holders. Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu.

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Fans shoot Nonito w their i-phones and androids during post fight press con. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nonito’s impersonator shadow boxes in front of his idol. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Impersonator cracks up Nonito after calling Nonito Sr his father. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Donaire poses w NABF Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Our very own Super Pinay Ana the Hurricane Julaton makes a successful ONE FC debut w TKO victory over Egyptian Aya-Saeid Saber. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed
By Jude Bautista

Most Filipinos know Ana ‘The Hurricane’ Julaton as a WBO women’s boxing champ. She’s probably the most heralded Pinay boxer in recent memory. The ONE FC fight against Aya-Sayeid Saber however, was dangerous for a lot of reasons. The transition from boxing to mixed martial arts is not always easy. Saber is a long time kickboxing champion with extensive training from Egyptian Top Team.

Aya-Saeid Saber is an Egyptian Kickboxing Champion with more MMA experience than Ana Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Saber has years of MMA experience over Julaton, which proves to be the undoing of most pro boxers who get into the cage. Even heavyweight champ James ‘Lights Out’ Toney was mercifully choked out after being ground and pounded by legend Randy Couture.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Acquiring the necessary wrestling skills to successfully defend the takedown doesn’t come in months, especially when you go against fighters who’ve been in the cage for years perfecting their ground game. Not a lot of people know that Julaton was trained in Asian martial arts like tae kwon do, kenpo karate, and jiu jitsu even before she got into boxing.

Julaton lands vicious left hook on Saber’s body. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Early in the first round it was evident that Julaton had the heavier hands with merciless body shots. And she’d push Saber up the cage to get into the clinch. Then came the inevitable trip by Saber taking the fight to the ground. After the ref stands them up, Saber would take advantage of her Muay Thai punishing Julaton with leg kicks. Ana would answer with body shots and a judo sweep. Saber would reverse the position and land elbows from top. Ana suffered swelling on her forehead from the elbows of the deadly Egyptian.

Saber gets takedown in the first and in the second round locks in a deadly guillotine on Ana Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014.

Aya Saeid Saber goes for a takedown on Ana Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya Saeid Saber lands on top of Julaton on Resort’s World logo and lands ground & pound early in the fight. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

By the second round Saber knew she could not stand up with Julaton so she aggressively went for the takedown. By the 2:40 mark Ana was able to get a reversal, in the process Saber locks in a lethal choke. The thousands of Pinoys at the MOA arena collectively held their breaths thinking this would be the end for our star boxer. Referee Oliver Coste was already crouching down to Ana’s face inches from the ground to see if she was still conscious. Her hands were active, face contorted, teeth gritting down showing she was ok and was trying to get out of it.

Angelo Reyes is the long time trainer of Ana ‘The Hurricane’ Julaton instructing her in the corner. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Ana the Hurricane Julaton lands left hook on Saber during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya-Saeid Saber locks in a lethal guillotine on Ana Julaton right on top of RWM logo. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

It may have been the longest 15 seconds of her life, until her head popped out. The crowd went wild and knew Ana was ok. Saber suddenly grabbed her arm going for an arm bar. Out of nowhere Ana pulls her up, lifts her own legs to stand briefly and slams Saber to the ground. The Egyptian holds on to the arm for dear life so Ana pulls her back up again, stands up and slams Saber down the canvas another 2 times. Just then the ring sounds to end the round. The crowd cheers insanely for the incredible display of heart and physical strength of a Pinay.

Aya-Saeid Saber locks in a lethal guillotine on Ana Julaton right on top of RWM logo. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Julaton landed vicious ground and pound on Saber during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The 3rd round the Egyptian immediately went for the takedown. With the wrestling of Julaton, she was again able to get a reversal. But the Egyptian was able to lock in another deadly guillotine. This time when Julaton got out and was on top she landed hammer fists swiftly on the face of Saber. Referee Coste gave Saber every chance to defend herself. He waited for 10 more unanswered punches before he had to pull Julaton off giving the Filipina a TKO win.

Ref Oliver Coste pulls Ana Julaton off Aya Saeid Saber to stop vicious ground and pound earning Julaton the TKO win. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014.

Ref Oliver Coste pulls Ana Julaton off Aya Saeid Saber to stop vicious ground and pound earning Julaton the TKO win. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014.

Having won both the WBO and IBA titles, the first Filipina to do so, she now eyes the ONE FC belt. “I’d love to be the first Filipina ONE FC Champion. For me I feel like that will be a dream come true. Just to be the first Filipina World boxing champion and the first Filipina ONE FC Champion will be the ultimate test for me. So I look forward to that.” The ONE FC league has grown with such renown that their contingent was quite large. They were billeted in Maxims Hotel, Marriot Hotel and Remington Hotel all located in the vicinity of Resort’s World Manila.

Left: Ed Folayang lands vicious left hook on the durable Boku. The fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

left: Pinay fighter Jujeath Nagaowa overwhelmed Jeet Toshi of India w a barrage of punches to the body, FPJ style. Referee Oliver Coste had to stop the fight. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Julaton was not the only Filipina who won last May 2, 2014 in ONE FC Rise of Heroes. Jujeath Nagaowa also had a TKO victory over 7x kickboxing champion Jeet Toshi of India. ONE FC Bantamweight Champion Bibiano Fernandes retained his belt against Masakatsu Ueda by decision. Co main event, Eduoard Folayang defeated Kotetsu Boku. Pinoy fighters Rey Docyogen and Eugene Toquero won over Josh Alvarez and Gianni Subba respectively.

left: Pinoy Rey Docyogen and Josh Alvarez of Guam had powerful exchanges during the stand up battle. The fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

The Hurricane was happy to fight in ONE FC, “You just don’t know what to expect with me bringing my game in the ONE FC stage. We have a million people viewership I feel like everything’s at stake whether it’s a title fight or not. This girl was a veteran; she has a lot of confidence. Any fighter who has confidence no matter what their background is a dangerous person. So for me I’m just glad to have this opportunity to come out with the win.”

Aya Saeid Saber was looking better in between rounds. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

As much as we notice her physical strength and skills, it’s her composure that got her through the lethal guillotine of Saber, “The important thing is that I stay levelheaded, stay focused. In my corner they told me what to do. Despite the ups and downs in the fight, its all about me and know that I’m in control. I’m in control of myself, just believe in yourself you know you worked hard and just continue on.”

right: former Miami HEAT center Ronnie Turiaf in the corner of Ana the Hurricane Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya Saeid Saber was looking better in between rounds. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

There were also a few adjustments from what she was used to in boxing, “She had 5 fights over me. It’s a different pace. I’m used to 2 minutes in the turnaround period for boxing. This is a five-minute pace, with 2 minute breaks in between. So it’s a different game, the set ups are different. It’s a cage rather than a boxing ring. There are a lot of things I need to be versatile on. I just can’t wait to get back into camp.”

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Ana Julaton had the heavier hands prompting Aya-Saeid Saber to shot for the takedowns. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Being a Filipino and a woman has had its own set of challenges in combat sports, “The only reason why I’ve been called the hurricane just so people can get my name right. There’s always been an uphill battle for me being a female in a male dominated sport. From here on out ONE FC gave me a tremendous opportunity. I’m so thankful for it and its not gonna be a walk in the park and I know that. ONE FC is all about true fighters. For me, that’s the ultimate challenge in that.”

They called her ‘The Hurricane’ because they had a hard time pronouncing Julaton—‘J’ is pronounced as ‘H’ –HULATON. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Ana Julaton loves fighting in her hometown the Philippines; she’s fought in so many more hostile crowds abroad. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

The chance to fight and win here in the Philippines has been a special blessing, “I feel like in the next bout I’m always going to get an uproar. Everyone’s going to be calling me out and stuff like that. Which is why I’m so happy to have a fight here in the Philippines. Its so nice to have people backing you supporting you. I’m so used to go into different countries and having wana see me get annihilated. It was nice to have that change and pick me up and just help me out. I’m really thankful for the opportunity to fight here.”

top left: Trainer Angelo Reyes carries Julaton in jubilation, Ronnie Turiaf does the same before her hand was raised. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Julaton gets her hand raised in her MMA debut. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Early in her boxing career she credits Freddie Roach as a big influence. Long time striking coach and trainer Angelo Reyes was in Ana’s corner. Chris Ben of Xtreme Couture was also in her camp to work on her wrestling. Chris Ben also trains women’s MMA pioneer Gina Carano. It was important for all those knowledgeable people to share their experience with her, “They’ve been so supportive and they kept warning me. This is an open thing for you. This is a battlefield. You gotta be ready for anything. So Monday through Saturday all I do is go sparring 2-3 times a day. You have to be ready for someone who wants to take me to the ground. What’s the position? Someone’s trying to box me. What’s the position? When they cut off the cage I gotta be ready.” Carano is set to fight UFC Women’s Bantamweight champ Ronda Rousey this July.

Julaton bows to the crowd after getting the TKO win against Saber. Behind her is trainer Angelo Reyes and for Miami Heat Ronnie Turiaf. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

former MIAMAI HEAT Center Ronnie Turiaf lifts Anna Julaton in victory. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

NBA champ Ronnie Turiaf who played for the HEAT was also in her corner as special friend and supporter. Julaton describes how important he was to her, “It’s amazing. This guy is all heart literally. Don’t get me wrong it was a tough camp, really tough. It’s a new weight division for me. I had to worry bout that. I had to worry about the game plan. I have to worry about new arsenal and being versatile in it. Its very easy to go up and down with your mind. It’s all about being able to stay levelheaded the whole time. One thing that Ronnie was able to bring me was a lot of perspective. I really appreciate that he’s a champion as well. He won the NBA championship with Spoelstra, Miami Heat. So its good to have a champion in your corner.” We beg to disagree Ana. Ronnie isn’t the only one with heart. You’re the one who displayed it in your fight. Ana Julaton is PURE HEART.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Our very own Super Pinay Ana the Hurricane Julaton makes a successful ONE FC debut w TKO victory over Egyptian Aya-Saeid Saber. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya Saeid Saber lands on top of Julaton on Resort’s World logo and lands ground & pound early in the fight. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

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Julaton pushes Saber against the fence. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Our very own Super Pinay Ana the Hurricane Julaton makes a successful ONE FC debut w TKO victory over Egyptian Aya-Saeid Saber. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

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former MIAMAI HEAT Center Ronnie Turiaf lifts Anna Julaton in victory. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Our very own Super Pinay Ana the Hurricane Julaton makes a successful ONE FC debut w TKO victory over Egyptian Aya-Saeid Saber. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nonito ‘Filipino Flash’ Donaire shows the bloody wraps while his trainer takes off his gloves. The Philippine flag flies proudly behind them.

Written by

Jude Thaddeus L. Bautista

A screenwriter could not have thought of a more dramatic script for a film. “Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire injured his left fist while winning his 4^th division title the WBO super Bantamweight belt. Donaire dominated the early rounds and Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. proved to be a more than worthy opponent. It was the reach and superior speed that allowed Nonito to score early. By the third round he staggered Vazquez in the dying seconds with a combination of a left upper cut and a left hook. The ropes saved Vazquez from completely falling to the canvas.

View from the top as Donaire and Vazquez meet in the middle of the ring.

Nonito pushes Vazquez into a corner and staggers him in the 3rd round.

PDI’s Marc Anthony Reyes in his front-page story surmises the fist was broken between the second and fourth rounds. Vazquez started to catch up with accurate jabs and a right cross from round 4-6. And it had begun to turn the tide for Vazquez. An early swelling on the right eye of Donaire seemed to get redder.

Donaire's right eye swelled, in spite of him dominating early in the fight.

Vazquez was also beginning to close the distance landing stronger blows on the inside. Boxing analyst Col. Bob Sheridan noticed that Flash was letting his left hand ‘drop’, or keeping it low too much. This was the opening that allowed the right cross from Vazquez to repeatedly land. Strategically it was a way for Donaire to bait Vazquez to coming in and landing a hard right hook. But because of it Vazquez seemed to be out boxing his opponent until the 8^th round.

The Mexican singer who sang their national anthem was Ramon Fernandez. Yes, tukayo of the PBA legend Ramon 'El Presidente' Fernandez.

The incredible thing was that he still used the left to land quite a few heavy blows. And didn’t’ show any real indication that it was hurt. Vazquez was closing in point wise gaining round after round until round 9. Flash came out with a sneaky right hand followed by a left uppercut and left hook which knocked down Vazquez.

The knockdown sequence, the flash winds up an uppercut which lands flush and sends Vazquez tumbling down the canvas.

Ironic that he fell at the SMART logo on the canvas, the only Filipino company to advertise right in the ring. The only other logos were TECATE which is Mexican and Bob Arum’s Top Rank.

Vazquez plants his face on the SMART logo the only Filipino company to advertise right in the ring. Referee Rafael Ramos helps him up and gives him the ten count.

Vazquez is given the standing ten count after the knockdown.

Vazquez, a Puerto Rican, enters the arena waving a Mexican flag.

Vazquez who is Puerto Rican came in the ring of the filled Alamodome carrying a Mexican flag. He is also the son of former 3 Division World champ Wilfredo Vazquez Sr. Carrying the flag was an obvious effort to try and court the support of the predominantly Mexican audience in, San Antonio Texas. And it worked, the crowd cheered every time Nonito was in trouble. Countryman and Fighter of the Decade Pacman Pacquiao has gotten their ire as the “Mexicutioner,” defeating ALL of their recently retired and active hall of fame fighters from Dela Hoya, Barrera, Marquez to name just a few. If they can’t beat Manny, Nonito was the next best target.

The pretty Rachel Donaire at ringside watching her husband overcome pain to win the fight.

Vazquez tries to come back in the dying seconds of the final round with a furious exchange.

After the knockdown, Vazquez could no longer overcome the lead. In the dying seconds of the 12^th and final round, the two exchanged punches. Vazquez was trying to catch up trying to knock out and Flash was right there toe to toe giving him everything he’s got. By this time it’s 100% sure that Nonito had ALREADY known that he injured or broken several bones on his left fist. It never fails to amaze me how fighters can go on fighting with incredible pain and injuries WITHIN a fight.  Sometimes their courage is to their own detriment.

Nonito shows 4 fingers for his fourth division title.

In all scorecards with sports analysts Bob Sheridan and Raul ‘El De Monte’ Marquez it was an overwhelming lead 117-110 and 116-110 respectively. And yet one judge Ruben Garcia gave a score of 115-112 for Vazquez. Thankfully the two other official judges saw it differently.

Fighters make up after all is said and done.

Blood oozes out of the wraps after knuckles were broken.

Heroism inside and outside the Ring

Courage can at times be detrimental to a fighter. Such was the case with Karlo Maquinto who died after being in a coma for five days. His death came less than a week from Donaire’s victory and hand injury. He collapsed after coming back from two knockdowns from Mark Joseph Costa. Maquinto got up to win the succeeding rounds enough to convince judges to declare the fight a draw. Seconds after the two fighters hands were raised by the ref he collapsed.

Vazquez tries to laugh after getting dropped.

GMA network aired the footage on primetime news. According to the news telecast Karlo’s sister in Ilo-ilo had not seen him for over two years since he arrived in Manila to train as a boxer. Manila Bulletin sports writer Nick Giongco reported on the incident. His article also had a comprehensive list of Pinoy boxers who lost their lives the past twenty years. Giongco’s article detailed both local and international fights:

“Before Maquinto’s passing, the last Filipino fighter to die of head injuries was Lito Sisnorio, who succumbed in Bangkok in April 2007 after being knocked out by former world champion Chatchai Sasakul. Since the 1980s, there have been a number of ring fatalities involving Filipino boxers here and abroad. In 1982, flyweight prospect Andy Balaba died days after being stopped by Shin Hi Sup in Seoul.

The last twenty years, among the ring-related deaths recorded were those of Macky Silvano, Roger Espinelli, Eugene Barutag, Mateo Baring, Eman Juarez, Ferdie Gimay and Maruel Zayas.”

Boxers risk their lives every time they step up the ring. You realize the heroism of our fighters, knowing the dangers they face. They do it fully conscious of the physical damage that they will suffer, win or lose. It’s reminiscent of our OFWS who go into countries specifically banned by the DFA as danger zones. They’d risk their lives in order to provide a better future for their families.

This is Donaire's hand underneath the wraps. Photo is from facebook fansite. Click on photo for link to facebook fansite for updates and pics straight from the Flash himself!

Our armed forces who put themselves in conflict is also a somewhat similar situation. The difference with our fighters there’s only an army of one, once they climb up the ring. BOTH Pacquiao and Donaire are especially at risk simply because of the level of competition. They face not only the most powerful but also the most skilled boxers in the world. True boxing fans know and appreciate this.

Even when they completely survive their careers, boxers sustain long-term physical damage. Noses are flattened, orbital bones, cheekbones become thicker after receiving hundreds of punches from each fight. Both Freddie Roach and Mohammed Ali suffer from neural disorders but the relation to head injuries has not been established medically. But it doesn’t take a doctor to figure out the damages sustained when the brain is rattled inside the skull after a heavy blow. As detailed in Giongco’s article since the 1980’s, the maximum rounds in a boxing match has been reduced from 15 to 12 in order to reduce the damage sustained in a fight.

Vazquez gets his swelling treated.

Recah Trinidad in an article for boxing.com lambasted organizers of Karlo Maquinto’s fight for being ill prepared when a grave injury is sustained in a fight.  The sport is really dangerous enough. Both Recah Trinidad and another great sports columnist, Quinito Henson have noticed that organizers did not pay enough attention to putting together the proper medical emergency equipment and personnel that may have saved the life of Maquinto. A detailed investigation of what really happened should be made to prevent future deaths in the ring. Another issue that cropped up is the lack of any form of health and life insurance for fighters.

Manny prays each time before each fight not just for his own safety but also for his opponent. No one wants our boxers to be in such dire straits in the same way no one wants our family members to have to leave the country just to earn a living. No soldier should have to lose his life or even take the life of someone else in conflict. But all of these things happen. Are any of these people any less of a hero? Not in my mind.

Donaire is bloodied but unbowed after the fight.

the People's Champ pushed for more action but Shane no longer had it in him. I watched the fight a second time when the replay was aired on TV5.

Written by

Jude Bautista

The punch flew so quickly and fast, ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley hardly had enough time to evade it. His legs buckled and dropped him to the canvas. The TV cam zoomed in on his face which had a dazed look. Since the knockdown at the last 1 minute 20 seconds of the 3^rd round, Mosley felt the power of Manny Pacquiao. Sugar’s aggressiveness slowly ebbed as the fight wore on. From the knockdown Mosley had been back tracking, clinching and running.

Shane really kisses the canvas. Top shot angle reveals Shane sprawled. RP telco SMART’s logo is on upper right hand corner, Mexican beer Tecate on bottom.

Even without the 3^rd round knockdown, Manny Pacquiao out scored the challenger in nearly every round thus retaining his WBO Welterweight title which was on the line for the fight. Top Rank promoter and Pacquiao manager Bob Arum revealed that another contender for the ‘Fighter of the Decade’ is scheduled for November of this year. Apart from Juan Manuel Marquez, he was also considering Timoth Bradley and Zab Judah as possible opponents.

A rare photo of Shane actually throwing a punch on MP. The replay was aired on TV5.

Rich Marotta described the rounds from the 3^rd round on, “Shane is too busy defending himself to set anything off. He’s moving backwards not giving himself a chance.” Boxing sportscaster Marotta is an SCSB hall of Fame inductee and has won four Emmy awards. The action between the fighters has lulled to the point of the crowd booing.

Referee Kenny Bayless Jr. mistakenly called a legitimate knockdown and gave Pacquiao a 10 count.

On the 10^th round Mosley shoved Pacquiao which resulted in an accidental trip. Referee Kenny Bayless Jr. mistakenly considered it as a legitimate knockdown and gave Pacquiao a 10 count. Spurned and irritated, Manny chased Mosley around the ring even more. Apart from clinching and running, Shane also often complained about accidental head butts by the champ. Barry Tompkins said, “Mosley didn’t have another fight in him. He just looks like a tired man. He’s in full scale retreat now.”

Shane was clinching, running and complaining of head butts. TV5 aired the fight replay.

Two of the judges absolutely disregarded the knockdown erroneously given by referee Bayless for Mosley: Dave Moretti 120-108, Duane Ford 120-107. And even when Glenn Trowbrige may have agreed with the ‘fake’ knock down, Pacquiao still outscored Mosley: 119-108.

Pacquiao in the post fight interview said, “I expected him to go toe to toe, to make people who paid to watch the fight happy.” He revealed that by the tenth round he suffered cramps and even asked one of his trainers, Buboy Fernandez to massage his legs. His sportsmanship was once again displayed when asked about the mistaken knockdown call by Bayless, “Yes, I was surprised. But that’s part of the game.”

Filipinos dominated the crowd that night. Here’s a Pinoy fan with a flag.

Audiences at the MGM Grand and fans watching the telecast were noisily showing their displeasure with the call. The main difference with boxing ref’s point of view is that viewers have the benefit of instant replay in slow motion. The right call can be made with it. Boxing refs have to make a decision seeing the action a split second after it happens. Unlike the NFL and the NBA which have adopted a review of close calls with slow motion replay.

trainer and childhood friend Buboy Fernandez whispers to MP's ear in between rounds.

Arce wins WBO Super Bantam weight Belt

One of the liabilities for Mosley was his age, almost 9 years older than Pacquiao (39 to 31). But the age difference in the under card immediately before them was no hindrance at all for Jorge Arce. In some ways the action made up for all the running that Mosley did in his fight. Wilfredo Vazquez is a young WBO Super Bantam weight title holder with ‘only’ 20 fights but with 17 KO’s. Jorge Arce was a former champ but was in the cross roads of his career following his defeat from Vic Darchinyan in 2009. Arce considered retiring. Vazquez is a fresh 26 year old without an amateur career while Arce already has a 52 fight win record at age 31 (not unlike Pacquiao who has had more fights with tougher opponents).

Vazquez seemed the more technical fighter, choosing his spots, very efficient. Arce was the more aggressive brawler. There were a lot of frequent exchanges from beginning to end. Arce was pushing the pace always moving forward until Vazquez dropped him with a left hook to the jaw in the 3^rd round.

Instead of relenting, Arce kept up the attack. Even when he suffered a cut ear the bridge of his nose, he became even more aggressive. On the start of the 12^th round Arce had put together such a flurry, that Vazquez was on the ropes and could not answer back. His trainer and father Wilfredo Vazquez Sr., (a former boxing champ himself) threw in a water bottle (instead of a towel) to stop the fight. When referee Joe Cortez didn’t see it, Vazquez’ corner climbed the ring to save their fighter from needless suffering.

MP w Top Rank promoter Bob Arum at the post fight interview.