Naoya Inoue Moves a Step Closer to Historic Japanese Clash After Dominant Victory.
Naoya Inoue paved the way for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese super-fight by successfully defending his championship belts with a clear points victory over the Mexican challenger in Riyadh on Saturday.
A Controlled Display from Start to Finish
Universally considered as one of the planet's top P4P boxers, Inoue was in complete control from the first round. He stifled the once-undefeated Picasso with a blend of devastating precision, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The official judges reflected his dominance with lopsided scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.
“I could have done better,” remarked Inoue post-fight. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Even while conceding significant height and reach to his foe, the champion imposed his will with crisp counters and hurtful combinations to the body. He wobbled the Mexican midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, forcing him into a largely defensive posture as the fight wore on.
Setting the Stage for a Domestic Spectacle
The triumph sets up a possible blockbuster clash with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani. Nakatani also emerged victorious on the same card, securing a unanimous decision in his first fight at the 122-pound division.
“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” said the undefeated contender. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”
Inoue responded in kind without making a firm commitment. “Both of us had very good wins tonight,” he commented. “For next year, we will decide what happens. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”
The Prospect of a Historic Fight
Should it be made, an Inoue–Nakatani bout—widely rumored for 3 May at the iconic venue—would pit two unbeaten, multi-division champions in their peak years. This constitutes a rarity in today's sport and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the most significant fight in Japan's rich boxing history.
