The Japanese champion Moves a Stride Closer to Landmark Tokyo Showdown After Dominant Win.
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 Alan Picasso in Riyadh on Saturday.
A Controlled Performance Over Twelve Rounds
Widely regarded as one of the world's top P4P boxers, Inoue was in total command from the first round. He stifled the previously unbeaten challenger with a blend of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The official judges reflected his dominance with wide scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.
“I could have done better,” stated the champion post-fight. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Even while conceding considerable height and reach to his foe, the champion quickly asserted himself with crisp counters and thudding body attacks. He stunned the Mexican in the middle rounds and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, compelling him into a survival mode as the contest progressed.
Setting the Stage for a Domestic Spectacle
The triumph sets up a potential historic encounter with compatriot the rising star. He also emerged victorious on the undercard, earning a points victory in his debut at the super-bantamweight division.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” said the undefeated contender. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”
The champion echoed the interest without making a firm commitment. “We both performed well this evening,” he commented. “For next year, we will decide what happens. The fans can look forward to something special.”
The Potential of a Historic Fight
If finalized, an Inoue–Nakatani fight—widely rumored for early May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would pit two unbeaten, multi-weight titleholders in their physical primes. This represents a rarity in today's sport and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the most significant fight in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.
