The light-flyweight division has a new name to contend with, Adrian Curiel (23-4-1) shocking IBF world champion Sivenathi Nontshinga (12-0) with a second-round knockout. The bout was the co-main event to Joe Cordina’s IBF super-featherweight world title defence against Edward Vazquez at the Casino de Monte Carlo in Monaco.
Cruiel started the round on the front foot with little method behind his attacks, which allowed Nontshing to counter and trade the Mexican. In a competitive round, Nontshinga could target the body while Cruiel’s face started to redden already.
The second round saw Cruiel start the same as it did in the opening round, Cruiel on the front foot and taking the fight to champion Nontshinga. Nontshinga was happy to allow the Mexican again to come on to him and ultimately paid the price. Cruiel would land a long right hand as Nontshinga was moving backwards, which landed high on the head of the South African.
Nontshinga landed heavily on the canvas as his head slid on the ropes, and referee Sparkle Lee immediately waved off the count with Nontshinga not attempting to rise to his feet to beat the count.
The official time of stoppage was ruled at 1:09 of the second round of a scheduled twelve rounds.
After medical checks, Nonthsinga was able to return to the corner seemed responsive and was able to leave the ring of his own accord.
