The Japanese champion Takes a Step Closer to Historic Japanese Clash Following Commanding Victory.
Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated domestic super-fight by retaining his championship belts with a clear points victory over Alan Picasso in Saudi Arabia on fight night.
A Controlled Display Over Twelve Rounds
Universally considered as one of the planet's top pound-for-pound fighters, "The Monster" was in total command from the opening bell. He neutralized the previously unbeaten 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.
“I could have done better,” stated Inoue 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 significant height and reach to his foe, the champion imposed his will with crisp counters and thudding body attacks. He wobbled the Mexican in the middle rounds and consistently broke through his defensive guard, forcing him into a survival mode as the fight progressed.
Setting the Stage for a National Blockbuster
The triumph arranges a potential blockbuster clash with compatriot the rising star. He scored his own win on the same card, earning a unanimous decision in his first fight at the 122-pound division.
“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” declared Nakatani. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”
The champion echoed the interest without making a definite announcement. “We both performed well this evening,” he commented. “For next year, we will decide what happens. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”
The Prospect of a Generation-Defining Fight
Should it be made, an clash between the two champions bout—widely rumored for early May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would feature two unbeaten, multi-weight champions in their physical primes. This represents a rarity in modern boxing and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the most significant fight in the nation's storied boxing history.
