Manila readies grand welcome for boxing champ Nonito Donaire

A grand welcome awaits World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Council (WBC) bantamweight champ Nonito Donaire Jr. upon his return to the Philippines from the United States. The Manila city government said the welcome includes a ceremony and a victory motorcade around the city, radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported Monday. Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim said it has been the city government's tradition to give Donaire a motorcade and warm welcome after his victories. Lim said there is no immediate schedule for the rites yet, saying this will depend on when Donaire will return from the US. Lim said Donaire will get a big welcome because he is an adopted son of the city. On Sunday (Manila time), Donaire pummeled Mexico’s Fernando Montiel to win both WBO and WBC titles. Donaire, the challenger, rocked Montiel with a left hook that sent the champion to the canvas. While Montiel made it back to his feet, referee Russell Mora stopped the fight at 2:25 of the round. Donaire (26-1, 18 knockouts) has won 25 consecutive fights, raising his record to 26-1 with 18 knockouts. – VVP, GMA News