The Japanese champion Takes a Step Nearer to Landmark Tokyo Clash Following Commanding Win.
Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese mega-bout by retaining his undisputed titles with a unanimous decision over Alan Picasso in Riyadh on fight night.
A Controlled Performance Over Twelve Rounds
Universally considered as one of the planet's elite pound-for-pound fighters, Inoue was in total command from the opening bell. He stifled the previously unbeaten challenger with a combination of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and relentless pressure. The scorecards confirmed his dominance with lopsided scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108.
“This performance wasn't good enough,” remarked the champion post-fight. “I'm glad I won, but I'm really tired. After some rest, I will return stronger.”
Despite giving up significant height and reach to his foe, Inoue quickly asserted himself with sharp counterpunching and hurtful combinations to the body. He stunned Picasso midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, forcing him into a survival mode as the fight progressed.
Laying the Groundwork for a National Blockbuster
The triumph arranges a possible historic encounter with compatriot Junto Nakatani. Nakatani also emerged victorious on the undercard, securing a unanimous decision in his debut at the super-bantamweight division.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” said Nakatani. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”
Inoue responded in kind while stopping short of a definite announcement. “We both performed well this evening,” he commented. “Plans for next year will be made in due course. The fans can look forward to something special.”
The Prospect of a Historic Battle
Should it be made, an clash between the two champions fight—heavily speculated for 3 May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would pit two unbeaten, multi-weight champions in their peak years. This constitutes a unique event in today's sport and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the most significant contest in Japan's rich boxing history.
