The undisputed super-bantamweight king cleared the path for a highly-anticipated all-Japanese super-fight by successfully defending his undisputed titles with a unanimous decision over Alan Picasso in Riyadh on Saturday.
Widely regarded as one of the world's top P4P fighters, "The Monster" was in total command from the first round. He stifled the once-undefeated Picasso with a combination of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The official judges reflected his dominance with lopsided scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.
“I could have done better,” stated Inoue post-fight. “I'm glad I won, but I'm really tired. I'll rest and be much better next time.”
Despite giving up considerable height and reach to his foe, the champion imposed his will with sharp counterpunching and thudding body attacks. He wobbled Picasso in the middle rounds and repeatedly pierced his defensive guard, forcing him into a largely defensive posture as the fight wore on.
The triumph sets up a potential blockbuster clash with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani. He also emerged victorious on the same card, earning a unanimous decision in his first fight at the 122-pound limit.
“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” said the undefeated contender. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”
Inoue responded in kind 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.”
If finalized, an clash between the two champions bout—heavily speculated for early May at the legendary venue—would feature two undefeated, multi-division titleholders in their physical primes. This represents a rarity in modern boxing and is considered by experts as a contender for the biggest fight in the nation's storied boxing history.
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