The undisputed super-bantamweight king cleared the path for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese mega-bout by successfully defending his championship belts with a unanimous decision over Alan Picasso in Saudi Arabia on fight night.
Universally considered as one of the world's top pound-for-pound fighters, "The Monster" was in complete control from the opening bell. He neutralized the previously unbeaten challenger with a blend of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and relentless pressure. The scorecards reflected his dominance with wide scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108.
âI could have done better,â remarked the champion post-fight. âI'm glad I won, but I'm really tired. After some rest, I will return stronger.â
Even while conceding considerable physical advantages to his opponent, Inoue quickly asserted himself with crisp counters and hurtful 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.
The win arranges a possible historic encounter with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani. Nakatani scored his own win on the same card, securing a points victory in his first fight at the 122-pound limit.
âMy goal in this weight class is to become champion,â declared the undefeated contender. âIf I get that chance, I want to take it.â
Inoue responded in kind without making a firm commitment. âBoth of us had very good wins tonight,â he noted. âPlans for next year will be made in due course. The fans can look forward to something special.â
Should it be made, an clash between the two champions fightâheavily speculated for 3 May at the legendary venueâwould pit two undefeated, multi-division titleholders in their physical primes. This constitutes a rarity in modern boxing and is viewed by many as a contender for the biggest fight in the nation's storied boxing history.
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Rita Jenkins
Rita Jenkins