The Japanese champion Takes a Stride Nearer to Landmark Japanese Showdown After Commanding Victory.
Naoya Inoue paved the way for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese mega-bout by retaining his championship belts with a unanimous decision over Alan Picasso in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
A Masterful Display Over Twelve Rounds
Universally considered as one of the world's top P4P boxers, "The Monster" was in complete control from the opening bell. He neutralized the previously unbeaten challenger with a blend of pinpoint accuracy, lightning hand speed, and relentless pressure. The scorecards confirmed his dominance with lopsided scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108.
“I could have done better,” remarked the champion through a translator. “I'm glad I won, but I'm really tired. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Despite giving up significant physical advantages to his opponent, Inoue imposed his will with crisp counters and thudding combinations to the body. He stunned Picasso in the middle rounds and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, compelling him into a largely defensive posture as the contest wore on.
Laying the Groundwork for a National Spectacle
The win arranges a potential historic encounter with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani. He scored his own win on the undercard, securing a unanimous decision in his debut at the 122-pound limit.
“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” said Nakatani. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”
Inoue echoed the interest while stopping short of a firm commitment. “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 Historic Fight
Should it be made, an clash between the two champions fight—widely rumored for 3 May at the iconic venue—would pit two undefeated, multi-division titleholders in their peak years. This represents a unique event in today's sport and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the biggest contest in Japan's rich boxing history.
