MANILA - Nonito ‘Filipino Flash' Donaire returned home yesterday, four days after knocking out in third round Mexican Jorge Arce to successfully defend his World Boxing Organization super bantamweight title in Houston, Texas.

The 30-year-old Filipino champion arrived at 5 a.m. from San Francisco , California on board Philippine Airlines Flight PR 105 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Centennial Terminal.

In a press briefing, Donaire said he would enjoy first his victory with his family and friends before thinking of his next plan.

Reports said that Donaire might move up from 122-pound to 126-pound division in a bid to get more quality fighters.

”I have to enjoy first my victory before thinking of my next plan,” he said.

On the reports that he is a candidate for “Fighter of the Year”, Donaire thanked people and sportswriters for considering him to the prestigious award.

“For me I don't think about it but (I will) just do what I can do inside the ring. But if that is the opinion of the people and sportswriters, I am honored,” he said.

Donaire's victory against Arce has avenged Manny Pacquiao's devastating sixth round knockout defeat to Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez last December 8.

Donaire remains undefeated since March 2010, improving his ring record to 31-1 with 20 via stoppages while handing Arce his first defeat in 12 fights. After his defeat, Arce (61-7-2 with 46 knockouts) said he is contemplating of retiring from boxing.*PNA

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