Donaire on being a dad

MANILA, Philippines - They said parenthood is something special. It changes your lifestyle, priorities, actions and your entire humanity.

Or so they say.

However, Nonito Donaire believes that having Jarel, his little boy, and his soon to be younger brother, a blessing way beyond the fame and riches that victory in the ring entails.

“It just makes you proud seeing how he’s figuring colors, numbers, all that stuff, it just makes you proud,” Nonito shared about his little boy, “I’m excited to also see it in my second baby boy. The feeling is something you can’t compare with.”

Nonito shared during the initial presser for Pinoy Pride 30: D-Day held in Gloria Maris at Gateway Mall that he’s the only one who’s been going back and forth in the country as he prepares for his comeback fight against William Prado. His wife, Rachel, is due for another baby boy to play alongside Jarel.

“It pains me to be away from them for so long,” he shared, revealing how his son did not even want to let go of his dad’s hand in the airport.

Asked if he’d allow his eldest to follow the path he’s taking, he did not have any reservation, saying, “Jarel is free to choose on his own. I’ll be there to support him whether it will be boxing or if he decides to pursue soccer.” The former five-division champ revealed that there’s no TV during the weekends for the young Nonito owing to soccer practice. “He also packs a mean right, you know.”

Pinoy Pride 30: D-Day is a joint offering from ABS-CBN and ALA Promotions. The fight card is headlined by reigning WBO Flyweight titlist Donnie “Ahas” Nietes and Nonito. You can catch the action live on SKYcable Pay-Per-View and will be aired at ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Sports + Action today at 9:45 a.m.