The stage is set for a classic battle of generations in the heart of Tokyo. Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire Jr., at the remarkable age of 43, will once again attempt to defy the limits of age and athleticism as he challenges the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight champion Seiya Tsutsumi. The highly anticipated title fight is scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the historic Kokugikan arena.
The Veteran's Quest for Glory
Donaire's pursuit of another world championship at 43 places him among an elite group of fighters, including his legendary compatriot Manny Pacquiao, who have competed at the highest level deep into their 40s. His team at Omega Boxing Gym is banking on his vast experience to be the decisive factor against the younger champion. Head coach Jinggoy Junco, who will be assisting Donaire's wife Rachel in the corner, emphasized this advantage.
"Age will matter, but we have the advantage in experience and heart," Junco told SunStar Cebu. He acknowledged Tsutsumi's skills as a volume puncher but pointed out a perceived lack of seasoning. Donaire prepared for this clash with a focused five-week training camp at Omega Boxing Gym, sparring with partners including Alex Santisima and Alvin Camique, leading Junco to confidently state, "He had a good training camp. We have a huge chance of winning this fight."
Donaire is no stranger to making history. He already holds the record as the oldest bantamweight world champion ever, a feat he achieved by knocking out Nordine Oubaali in 2021 at age 38 to win the WBC title. He proved he still possesses elite power just last June 14, capturing the interim WBA bantamweight title with a technical decision over Andres Campos at 42.
The Challenge of Youth: Champion Seiya Tsutsumi
Standing across the ring will be a formidable and undefeated champion 14 years his junior. Seiya Tsutsumi (12-0-3, 8 KOs) earned his strap in 2024 by dethroning fellow Japanese star Takuma Inoue via unanimous decision. He has since defended it once, resulting in a majority draw with former champion Daigo Higa.
Despite Tsutsumi's rapid rise and talent, Donaire's camp has identified potential weaknesses. Coach Junco believes the champion's defensive flaws could be his downfall if Donaire's legendary power finds its mark. "He (Tsutsumi) has some bad habits and poor defense. If Nonito's power shots connect then, he could be knocked out," Junco analyzed.
Legacy on the Line and Undercard Action
This fight represents another chapter in the storied career of one of the Philippines' greatest fighters. Donaire (43-8, 29 KOs) is a four-division world champion who has shared the ring with a who's who of boxing elites, including Naoya Inoue, Vic Darchinyan, and Guillermo Rigondeaux. A victory would add an incredible late-career achievement to his Hall-of-Fame resume.
Adding to the Filipino interest on the card, prospect Vencent Lacar (10-1, 4 KOs) will also see action. He is set to face former world champion Sergio Yuri Akui (21-3-1, 11 KOs) in an eight-round contest, offering another chance for Philippine boxing to shine on the international stage.
As the final weigh-in concludes and the fighters face off, the narrative is clear: a legendary Filipino warrior's experience and power against the youthful vigor and championship momentum of Japan's rising star. The Kokugikan will witness whether "The Filipino Flash" can once more turn back the clock.
