Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated domestic super-fight by retaining his undisputed titles with a clear points victory over Alan Picasso in Riyadh on Saturday.
A Controlled Performance Over Twelve Rounds
Universally considered as one of the world's elite pound-for-pound boxers, Inoue was in total command from the opening bell. He neutralized the once-undefeated Picasso 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,” stated Inoue through a translator. “I'm glad I won, but I'm really tired. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Even while conceding significant height and reach to his opponent, the champion quickly asserted himself with sharp counterpunching and thudding combinations to the body. He wobbled Picasso midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his guard, forcing him into a survival mode as the contest wore on.
Laying the Groundwork for a Domestic Spectacle
The win arranges a possible historic encounter with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani. Nakatani scored his own win on the same card, earning a points victory in his debut at the 122-pound division.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” 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. “Plans for next year will be made in due course. The fans can look forward to something special.”
The Prospect of a Historic Fight
If finalized, an clash between the two champions fight—heavily speculated for 3 May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would feature two unbeaten, multi-weight titleholders in their peak years. This represents a unique event in modern boxing and is viewed by many as a contender for the biggest fight in the nation's storied pugilistic heritage.
