The Japanese champion Takes a Step Nearer to Historic Tokyo Showdown After Commanding Victory.
The undisputed super-bantamweight king cleared the path for a highly-anticipated domestic super-fight by retaining his undisputed titles with a unanimous decision over Alan Picasso in Saudi Arabia on fight night.
A Controlled Display from Start to Finish
Universally considered as one of the world's elite pound-for-pound fighters, Inoue was in complete control from the first round. He neutralized the previously unbeaten Picasso with a blend of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The scorecards confirmed his dominance with wide scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.
“I could have done better,” 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 foe, Inoue imposed his will with sharp counterpunching and hurtful body attacks. He wobbled Picasso in the middle rounds and consistently broke through his guard, compelling him into a largely defensive posture as the contest wore on.
Setting the Stage for a Domestic Spectacle
The triumph arranges a possible historic encounter with compatriot Junto Nakatani. Nakatani scored his own win on the same card, securing a unanimous decision in his first fight at the super-bantamweight limit.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” said Nakatani. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”
The champion echoed the interest while stopping short of a definite announcement. “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 Generation-Defining Fight
Should it be made, an clash between the two champions fight—widely rumored for early May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would pit two unbeaten, multi-division champions in their peak years. This represents a rarity in today's sport and is viewed by many as a contender for the biggest fight in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.
