Naoya Inoue Moves a Stride Nearer to Historic Japanese Clash After Commanding Win.

Naoya Inoue paved the way for a highly-anticipated domestic super-fight by retaining his undisputed titles with a unanimous decision over the Mexican challenger in Saudi Arabia on fight night.

A Masterful Display Over Twelve Rounds

Universally considered as one of the planet's elite P4P fighters, Inoue was in complete control from the opening bell. He stifled the once-undefeated challenger with a combination of devastating precision, lightning hand speed, and relentless pressure. The scorecards confirmed his dominance with wide scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.

“This performance wasn't good enough,” remarked the champion through a translator. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. After some rest, I will return stronger.”

Even while conceding significant physical advantages to his opponent, Inoue imposed his will with sharp counterpunching and hurtful combinations to the body. He wobbled Picasso midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, forcing him into a survival mode as the contest wore on.

Setting the Stage for a Domestic Blockbuster

The win sets up a possible blockbuster clash with fellow countryman the rising star. He also emerged victorious on the same card, securing a points victory in his debut at the 122-pound limit.

“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” said Nakatani. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”

Inoue echoed the interest without making a firm commitment. “We both performed well this evening,” he noted. “For next year, we will decide what happens. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”

The Prospect of a Historic Fight

Should it be made, an clash between the two champions fight—heavily speculated for 3 May at the legendary Tokyo Dome—would feature two unbeaten, multi-weight champions in their physical primes. This constitutes a rarity in today's sport and is viewed by many as a contender for the biggest contest in Japan's rich boxing history.