The Japanese champion Moves a Step Nearer to Historic Tokyo Clash Following Dominant Victory.
Naoya Inoue paved the way for a long-awaited domestic mega-bout by retaining 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 world's elite pound-for-pound fighters, "The Monster" was in total command from the first round. He stifled the once-undefeated Picasso with a blend of devastating precision, lightning hand speed, and sustained aggression. The scorecards reflected his superiority 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 physical advantages to his opponent, the champion imposed his will with crisp counters and thudding combinations to the body. He stunned the Mexican in the middle rounds and repeatedly pierced his guard, forcing him into a largely defensive posture as the fight wore on.
Setting the Stage for a Domestic Spectacle
The triumph arranges a possible blockbuster clash with fellow countryman the rising star. Nakatani scored his own win on the same card, earning a points victory in his debut at the 122-pound limit.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” said the undefeated contender. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”
The champion echoed the interest without making 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 Prospect of a Historic Fight
Should it be made, an Inoue–Nakatani fight—heavily speculated for 3 May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would pit two undefeated, multi-weight champions in their physical primes. This represents a unique event in modern boxing and is viewed by many as a candidate to be the most significant contest in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.
