Naoya Inoue Takes a Step Closer to Historic Japanese Clash Following Dominant Win.
Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese super-fight by successfully defending his championship belts with a unanimous decision over the Mexican challenger in Riyadh on Saturday.
A Masterful Performance from Start to Finish
Widely regarded as one of the world's elite pound-for-pound fighters, "The Monster" was in total command from the opening bell. He stifled the once-undefeated challenger with a blend of pinpoint accuracy, lightning hand speed, and relentless pressure. The official judges reflected his dominance with lopsided scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108.
“This performance wasn't good enough,” remarked the champion through a translator. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Despite giving up considerable height and reach to his foe, the champion quickly asserted himself with crisp counters and thudding body attacks. He wobbled the Mexican midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, compelling him into a survival mode as the contest progressed.
Laying the Groundwork for a National Blockbuster
The triumph arranges a potential blockbuster clash with compatriot the rising star. He scored his own win on the undercard, securing a points victory in his debut at the 122-pound division.
“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” said the undefeated contender. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”
Inoue responded in kind without making a firm commitment. “We both performed well this evening,” he noted. “Plans for next year will be made in due course. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”
The Prospect of a Historic Battle
Should it be made, an Inoue–Nakatani bout—heavily speculated for 3 May at the iconic venue—would pit two unbeaten, multi-weight champions in their physical primes. This constitutes a rarity in modern boxing and is viewed by many as a candidate to be the biggest fight in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.
