Naoya Inoue Takes a Step Nearer to Historic Japanese Clash After Dominant Win.
Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese mega-bout by successfully defending his championship belts with a clear points victory over Alan Picasso in Riyadh on fight night.
A Controlled Performance Over Twelve Rounds
Widely regarded as one of the planet's top P4P boxers, Inoue was in complete control from the first round. He neutralized the once-undefeated challenger with a combination of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and relentless pressure. The official judges reflected his superiority with wide scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.
“This performance wasn't good enough,” stated Inoue through a translator. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Even while conceding significant physical advantages to his opponent, Inoue imposed his will with sharp counterpunching and hurtful combinations to the body. He wobbled the Mexican midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his guard, forcing him into a survival mode as the contest progressed.
Laying the Groundwork for a Domestic Spectacle
The win arranges a potential historic encounter with compatriot the rising star. Nakatani also emerged victorious on the same card, securing a unanimous decision in his first fight at the 122-pound limit.
“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” said the undefeated contender. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”
The champion responded in kind while stopping short of a definite announcement. “Both of us had very good wins tonight,” he commented. “Plans for next year will be made in due course. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”
The Potential of a Generation-Defining Battle
Should it be made, an Inoue–Nakatani fight—widely rumored for early May at the iconic venue—would pit two undefeated, multi-division champions in their peak years. This constitutes a unique event in today's sport and is considered by experts as a contender for the biggest fight in the nation's storied pugilistic heritage.
