Naoya Inoue Moves a Stride Nearer to Landmark Japanese Showdown After Commanding Victory.
Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese super-fight by retaining his undisputed titles with a clear points victory over Alan Picasso in Riyadh on Saturday.
A Controlled Display Over Twelve Rounds
Widely regarded as one of the planet's top pound-for-pound fighters, Inoue was in complete control from the first round. He stifled the previously unbeaten challenger with a blend of devastating precision, lightning hand speed, and relentless pressure. The scorecards reflected his dominance with wide scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.
“I could have done better,” stated the champion through a translator. “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 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 guard, forcing him into a survival mode as the contest progressed.
Setting the Stage for a National Spectacle
The win arranges a potential historic encounter with fellow countryman the rising star. He scored his own win on the same card, earning a points victory in his debut at the super-bantamweight limit.
“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” said the undefeated contender. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”
Inoue responded in kind while stopping short of a firm commitment. “Both of us had very good wins tonight,” he commented. “For next year, we will decide what happens. 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—heavily speculated for 3 May at the iconic venue—would pit two undefeated, multi-weight titleholders in their peak years. This represents a rarity in today's sport and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the biggest fight in the nation's storied boxing history.
