BBN ask key figures in boxing for their predictions for the Ryan Burnett vs Nonito Donaire WBSS quarter-final fight
Former four-weight world champion Nonito Donaire (19-0) was hand picked by top seed Ryan Burnett (38-5) for the quarter-finals of the new season of the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) at bantamweight.
The Filipino Flash is now 35-years-old, nine years Burnett's senior, and has only won one fight in the last two years, whereas the Belfast man is unbeaten in 19 bouts and has won two world titles at bantamweight already – IBF and WBA 'Super'.
It's still an intriguing match-up with Donaire's exceptional experience and unparalleled pedigree against Burnett's youth, vigour and confidence, so BBN called upon a trusted panel of experts within the boxing world to offer their unique insight into the WBA 'Super' and WBC Diamond World bantamweight title fight this weekend:
Nick Webb
Heavyweight prospect
"I think Donaire has had his day now, so it's time for Ryan Burnett to take over. He's the reigning world champ and got his whole career ahead of him, but Donaire is winding down now."
Ben Capps
WBC Asian Boxing Council Continental & IBO Oceania super-welterweight champion
"Nonito Donaire has been a beast over the years, but think Father Time has caught up to him now and Ryan Burnett got the youth in his corner and that will play a factor as the fight goes on."
John McCallum
British Challenge belt light-heavyweight champion
"Gotta go with Ryan Burnett, he's fresher and on a roll at the moment. Donaire is still dangerous but his best days are behind him."
Shannon Courtenay
England amateur champion
"I believe it’s going to be a wide points decision for my teammate Ryan Burnett. He’s looked strong, sharp and unbelievably quick in camp and think his speed and footwork will give Nonito Donaire a whole lot of problems, however this fight is a lot harder than people are giving him credit for. Donaire has come down in weight since Frampton where he looked fleshy but strong and is still a dangerous fighter, so I do expect a sharper Donaire too but not in the same league as Burnett."
Tim Rickson
Sports Agent
"Nonito Donaire still looked like a force in last April’s clash with Carl Frampton, but he was always that one step behind, which also suggests that, against the elite, he will always just be slightly behind in the exchanges and the pace. Plus, it's the first time he's competed at bantamweight for around seven years, which could be a factor against him, but he claims to be revitalised with his new trainer Brandon Woods behind him. I think the fight with Frampton probably gave him a confidence boost that he can still mix it at world level and be in with more than a shot; that said, I believe Burnett's got too much momentum behind him and will have the confidence that comes with being a young, unbeaten world champion.
Burnett's last eight fights have ended as points wins and Donaire hasn't been stopped since 2014 [Nicholas Walters TKO 6/12] so I expect Ryan to win by UD."
Anish Parekh
BBN Writer
"Burnett is younger, fresher, supremely confident and, most importantly, very talented.
Donaire will likely make the Hall of Fame one day, but he is long past his prime years and hasn't had a significant victory since he beat Jorge Arce in 2012. The veteran Filipino will be crafty enough to survive 12 rounds and might have the odd bit of success, but come the final bell it will be the Irishman who wins a clear decision by outworking his battle-worn opponent."
Mick Gordon
Ring Announcer
"Its got to be Ryan Burnett. He’s on a serious roll at the moment with youth, fitness and confidence on his side."
Online Vote
Ryan Burnett points win: 64%
Nonito Donaire points win: 12%
Ryan Burnett KO win: 4%
Nonito Donaire KO win: 20%
Betting Odds provided by Energy Bet
Latest best odds for Ryan Burnett vs Nonito Donaire (at 10am on October 29)
Ryan Burnett win: 1.15/1
Nonito Donaire win: 4.85/1
Draw:26/1