Logic says that things are going to be a little awkward, at least for a while, for blossoming superstar Nonito Donaire. A few weeks back the Fil-Am fighter made headlines when it was announced that he had opted out of his promotional union with Top Rank by signing an exclusive deal with Golden Boy Promotions, a move that some backed and others couldn't quite fathom.
Promoter Bob Arum took great offense to Donaire's actions, fully believing that his contract with the 28-year old was still binding for various reasons. The 79-year old took the matter to court and earlier this week judge Daniel Weinstein saw in his favor, enjoining Golden Boy from promoting Donaire at this point.
Several people have chastised Donaire for creating this situation but not everyone is so critical. A few days ago I had a lengthy talk with former IBF junior welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi and we closed our rap session by analyzing the situation.
Always one to wear his own emotions on his sleeve, Malignaggi, who himself recently ponied up with Golden Boy after a stint with Lou Dibella, seemed to sympathize with Donaire.
"I think every fighter has the right to do whatever they want for their career. I don't understand what the backlash is. He's coming off of a big win over Montiel. Nobody said he has to stay with Top Rank. He did the same thing when he beat Darchinyan. He left Gary Shaw and went to Top Rank. Nobody was complaining then. Why is everyone complaining now?," Malignaggi remarked of Donaire's initial interest to pursue life outside of Top Rank.
Malignaggi continued on, showing obvious admiration towards Donaire and a definite bit of disdain towards the way the three-division champion's career was handled by Top Rank.
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