It seems a lot of people have such high expectations on Inoue and I know everyone is expecting a blowout from him. But if by some miracle Donaire manages to turn back the clock and gives Inoue a tough fight, avoids getting stopped, or dare I say actually BEATS Inoue, how much is that going to hurt Inoue's reputation? Even though Inoue is expected to win I don't think there's any shame if he were to lose to a future HOFer like Donaire IMO.
Distance I'd say about 10% Loses, without controversy or other circumstances, at least 50% He's pretty much viewed as untouchable at the weightclass by many fans at the moment. WAR JAPAN! SINK THE FLEET!
Donaire is a solid, solid guy as far as sturdiness and chin. The only person to stop him was a savage giant two divisions higher. There's absolutely no shame if Inoue didn't stop Donaire. I personally don't think he will. I don't think not stopping him will drop Inoue's stock at all.
Not stopping him / close decision wouldn't deter him much. In fact, I think it would actually raise Inoue's stock. It would show Donaire is closer to the vicious Darchinyan / Nishioka days than we thought, and therefore a better win over a great fighter. A loss, however...