WBC bantamweight world champion Fernando ‘Kochulito’ Montiel (44-2-2, 34 KOs) knocked out Giovani “Bambino” Soto (29-12-1, 24 KOs) at 2:29 of the second round of a non-title bout on Friday night in Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. Montiel dropped Soto twice in round two after also sending Soto to the canvas in round one. The win set up a showdown between Montiel and Nonito Donaire.
“I felt very strong,” said Montiel afterward. “Soto is brave but I came to win, and I’m ready for Donaire. On February 19 I’ll show that I’m better than he is.”
