So the risk is there as the fight goes longer for him and for Santiago he might want to prolong the fight and test Nonito's stamina.
It's the right strategy to be made, considering Donaire is older now; he might slow down as the fight goes longer. However, that's a big task for Santiago, as he needs to prevent the heavy punches of Donaire. Since Donaire is a counter-punching guy, the fight might be boring if he does not engage. I don't see a scenario that will give the fans enjoyment, but if it's the strategy, then there's nothing we can do but watch.
In the era that we are in now, boxers are much more interested to have the belts by having the much easier routes without involving themselves in a toe-to-toe confrontation fights which the fans wanted as that is much more entertaining. Some of these boxers now are not really inclined to be named as one of the strongest boxers in their era because boxing industry nowadays became more and more business instead of an entertainment sport.
That said, it's understandable if Santiago will resort into a boring fight where he will just fight to survive and will settle for the points instead because confronting and challenging Donaire is not really a good idea because only few managed to do that and had a successful run afterwards. Keeping up with him is another thing, so most probably, Santiago will start his gameplan in the mid rounds.
You are right, more on winning no matter how you take that win,what is important is you win the fight.
If Santiago will execute that kind of fight plan, the chance of winning is better. Considering Donaire's age, there's already limitation
on his movements, and pushing the fight to the decision calls, he can surely manage to hit and run and make some good points
and reserve those in his favor to win by UD to earn the belt.
It might be ugly and some boxing fans will not appreciate their way but for them, a win is a win and there's nothing greater than that.
Now about Santiago and Donaire, we all know that the latter may have some problems along the way mainly in the late rounds specially if he already poured his strengths in the early to middle rounds just to make the fight end much sooner. And if Santiago can survive that without being knocked down, I think he can make that as an advantage while the latter is already tired at that point. Furthermore, there's no favorite here in the eyes of the judges because both of them is seeking for the same belt.