Naoya Inoue Moves a Stride Closer to Landmark Japanese Clash Following Commanding Victory.
The undisputed super-bantamweight king paved the way for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese mega-bout by retaining his championship belts with a unanimous decision over the Mexican challenger in Saudi Arabia on fight night.
A Masterful Display Over Twelve Rounds
Universally considered as one of the planet's top pound-for-pound boxers, Inoue was in complete control from the first round. He stifled the previously unbeaten challenger with a combination of pinpoint accuracy, lightning hand speed, and relentless pressure. The official judges confirmed his superiority with wide scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108.
“This performance wasn't good enough,” remarked Inoue post-fight. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. After some rest, I will return stronger.”
Despite giving up significant physical advantages to his foe, Inoue quickly asserted himself with sharp counterpunching and hurtful combinations to the body. He wobbled Picasso 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 Blockbuster
The triumph arranges a possible blockbuster clash with compatriot the rising star. He scored his own win on the same card, securing a unanimous decision in his first fight at the super-bantamweight division.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” declared the undefeated contender. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”
The champion responded in kind without making a firm commitment. “We both performed well this evening,” he noted. “For next year, we will decide what happens. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”
The Prospect of a Generation-Defining Battle
Should it be made, an clash between the two champions bout—heavily speculated for 3 May at the legendary venue—would pit two unbeaten, multi-division champions in their peak years. This constitutes a rarity in modern boxing and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the biggest contest in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.
