Sta Ynes, California - Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire is certainly not a Manny Pacquiao, not even a far cry close. But tonight, on the ring set up at the bucolic yet beautiful Chumash Casino and Resort in Sta.Ynez, California, Donaire perhaps moved just a wee bit closer to the Pacman in so far as ring performance is concerned. He clearly demonstrated that he had a KO punch. Donaire KO’d his opponent in the 2nd round. The opponent was Jose Luis Cardenas, a late substitute for Jovanny Soto. Donaire was supposed to defend his NABO title against Soto. However, problems with the promotions, particularly the “sanction fee” prevented the Donaire-Soto title fight, thus Cardenas was brought in.
Nonito Donaire (L) delivers the left hand that sent Jose Luis Cardenas down on his pants.
Although the fight was short, there was never a dull moment. It was a battle between two determined warriors who were out to show the very vocal and predominantly Latino crowd (with a sprinkling of Filipinos) at Samala Ballroom of the Chumash Casino that they truly meant business. From the first bell to the first knock-down and eventual KO, Donaire and Cardenas went after each other like they were possessed. The fight ended at 1:48 on the second round with Cardenas being counted down of his seat.
Donaire’s performance was impressive notwithstanding that Cardenas did not have a record that is even closed to that of Soto. But, Cardenas had six previous wins four of which were KO’s.
The victory of Donaire’s improved his slate to 15-1, 9KO’s. Indeed, an impressive record for the up coming young fighter from General Santos who now makes northern California his home.. Cardenas on the other hand dropped to 6-7-1 (4KO)
Jose Luis Cardenas (L) listens as the referee counts him out to end the bout.
The referee raises Donaire's hand in victory. Donaire now improves his record to 15-1 with 9 KOs.
The Donaire-Cardenas bout was a supporting under card of the Vivian Harris-Stevie Johnston/ Joshua Clottery- Richard Gutierrez double header presentation of the Gary Shaw Production, LLC. The event was televised live on HBO with a 3- hour delay broadcast in the west coast of the USA. The Donaire Cardenas fight was however not included on live TV.
In the main events, WBA Junior welterweight champ, Vivian Harris won by 7th round TKO over Stevie Johnston. Harris knocked down Johnston twice in the first round and once in round 4 and 7. Josua Clottery on the other hand won via a bloody majority decision over Richard Gutierrez of Columbia. The fight was highlighted by point deductions on both fighters for low blows.
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