Looks like the “Filipino Flash” still has enough for possibly for one more glorious run and his stoppage victory over Ryan Burnett, which albeit came under unfortunate circumstances, has opened up new opportunities for this four-division world champion.
THE FIGHT. In the first round, the younger Burnett (19-1, 9KOs) looked like the faster, flashier fighter, darting in and out landing jabs and occasional right hands, but Donaire was right there with him, countering with hooks and left jabs.
Donaire started to find his range in the third, and he was landing more often, which stopped Burnett in his tracks.
However in the fourth, in a bizarre turn of events, after Burnett missed with a right straight, something must have snapped in his lower back as he immediately reached for it and turned away, taking a knee.
When he got back up, he was clearly hampered by the sudden, unintended injury and Donaire seized the opportunity to attack and unload on him.
He mercifully survived the onslaught, but was unable to continue giving the “Filipino Flash” his 25th stoppage win in 39 victories with 5 losses.
WBSS. A true gentleman, Donaire was distressed post-fight about Burnett’s condition and the way the fight turned out, but at the end of the day, a win is a win, and he acknowledged that.
Luck played a huge part, but Burnett was clearly not in Donaire’s class.
The way the fighters matched up in those four rounds, regardless of the injury, I thought Burnett had no answer for Donaire’s power and would have lost anyway, probably by decision.
But that might not be the case for Donaire’s next opponent in this World Boxing Super Series Bantamweight tournament.
Zolani Tete (28-3, 21KOs) is a much more accomplished fighter having beaten the likes of Omar Narvaez and our very own Arthur Villanevua of the ALA Gym.
Still, I would peg Donaire as the favorite in that fight, given everything that he has accomplished, as long as he doesn’t fight trying to push for a spectacular knockout every single round.
He just has to break down his opponent and patiently wait for openings.
VERBATIM. “I then started to use my speed and fight the way I usually do, which is the Filipino Flash.”--Nonito Donaire (www.boxingscene.com)
LAST ROUNDS. Are on Audrey Rose Garganera and Hon. Judge Bong Espina who recently celebrated their birthdays. Cheers!