Now fighting back down at 122 lbs, the “Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire today took less than 2 rounds to dispose of Frenchman Anthony Settoul in Macau, China, in a ruthless display of speed, accuracy and power, that floored the French fighter three times and sent a loud warning shot to Britain’s Scott Quigg : “Be careful what you wish for.”
Quigg goes into battle tonight against former IBF 122 lb champion Kiko Martinez in Manchester, and should he win that fight, promoter Eddie Hearn has lined up 4 weight world champion Donaire for the next defense of the Englishman’s WBA (reg) super bantamweight strap – however after today’s display it is more than clear that the 32 year old Filipino veteran isn’t done yet.
Former European bantamweight champion Settoul was hopelessly outgunned and out classed from the off with the superior speed of Donaire telling up close early on. A delayed reaction to a left uppercut on the chin sent the Frenchman down for the first time with a minute of the round to go, only to be followed up with a big right and a left hand liver shot at the rounds end that saw the bell save Settoul.
As soon as the bell went for the second, a composed and clinical Donaire, exhibiting flashes of his former brilliance, came out with authority after calming words from his father in the corner. After bossing a cagey Settoul around the ring for much of the round, landing powerful combinations at will, a big right hand caught Settoul bang on the chin and the towel came in as the Frenchman was crumpled up on the canvas.
Donaire improved to 35-3, 22KO with the victory.
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