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By Jake Donovan - It was hardly a welcome return to the super flyweight division, but in the end, recently vacated flyweight titlist Nonito Donaire found a way to turn back the challenge of Panamaniam trialhorse Rafael Concepcion. Overcoming an injured hand and a considerable weight difference, Donaire emerged with a clear decision win in the main event at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Donaire came in at the super flyweight limit of 115 lb; Concepcion was considerably over at 119.5 lb, resulting in a 20% forfeiture of his $65,000 payday.
As expected, Donaire gained control very early in the fight. Precision punching is always the key to his success, though it was effective body shots that seemed to get the best of the fleshy Concepcion in the opening round.
Despite his early success, the advice from Donaire’s corner was to offer more jabs. It wasn’t immediately evident in the second, as Donaire was more comfortable fighting at a measured pace, allowing for left hooks and right hands to land upstairs.
He should’ve listened to his corner, because his night never got any easier.
Concepcion charged forward late in the round, landing two right hands along the ropes that momentarily hurt Donaire, as did a left hook a few moments later. Donaire recovered well, though to the tune of being the first round he’s lost all year. [details]
Donaire came in at the super flyweight limit of 115 lb; Concepcion was considerably over at 119.5 lb, resulting in a 20% forfeiture of his $65,000 payday.
As expected, Donaire gained control very early in the fight. Precision punching is always the key to his success, though it was effective body shots that seemed to get the best of the fleshy Concepcion in the opening round.
Despite his early success, the advice from Donaire’s corner was to offer more jabs. It wasn’t immediately evident in the second, as Donaire was more comfortable fighting at a measured pace, allowing for left hooks and right hands to land upstairs.
He should’ve listened to his corner, because his night never got any easier.
Concepcion charged forward late in the round, landing two right hands along the ropes that momentarily hurt Donaire, as did a left hook a few moments later. Donaire recovered well, though to the tune of being the first round he’s lost all year. [details]
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