Aussie Boxer Can Be World Champion, Says Star Trainer

Future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire believes that Australian boxer Michael Zerafa has what it takes to become a world champion. The Victorian fighter is set to compete on the undercard of the highly anticipated Tim Tszyu-Sebastian Fundora fight in Las Vegas on March 31 (AEDT), with a shot at the WBA middleweight title against Cuban-American veteran Erislandy Lara.

Zerafa, who hasn’t fought since November 2022, had faced some challenges in his training camp with an unpleasant split from his trainer and US promoter. However, the 31-year-old received a helping hand from Donaire after the two connected at a WBA convention. The experienced fighter, known as the “Filipino Flash,” was impressed by Zerafa’s talent and decided to lend his expertise to help him prepare for the upcoming fight.

“He’s a really nice guy, very respectful, but then getting to know him, I realised how talented he is,” Donaire said. “That’s when I started to bring out a lot of his talent, a lot of things that I understood in my knowledge and experience in boxing, he was able to comprehend and do the things I was teaching him.”

Donaire, who has won multiple world titles across four divisions, recognized Zerafa’s work ethic and commitment to training, which gave him confidence in the Australian boxer’s capabilities. Despite facing the experienced and elusive Lara, Donaire warned Zerafa not to underestimate his opponent based on age.

“He (Lara) is old, but I’m old too, so don’t underestimate us,” Donaire advised. “I told him you’ve just got to go in there at 100 per cent, doesn’t matter who it is; don’t think about the age, the experience, all his accolades, when you go in there.”

With Donaire in his corner, Zerafa now has the guidance and support of a legendary champion as he prepares to take on Lara for the world title. The Australian fighter’s dedication to training and his ability to absorb the lessons taught by Donaire give him a strong chance at achieving his dream of becoming a world champion.

As the boxing world eagerly anticipates the Tszyu-Fundora showdown, all eyes will also be on Zerafa and his quest for glory in the ring. With the backing of Donaire and his own determination, Zerafa has the opportunity to make a significant impact and potentially claim the WBA middleweight title.