Naoya Inoue Moves a Step Nearer to Landmark Japanese Clash Following Commanding Win.

The undisputed super-bantamweight king paved the way for a long-awaited all-Japanese mega-bout by retaining his championship belts with a unanimous decision over Alan Picasso in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.

A Controlled Display from Start to Finish

Universally considered as one of the planet's top P4P boxers, "The Monster" was in total command from the opening bell. He stifled the previously unbeaten Picasso with a combination of devastating precision, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The official judges confirmed his dominance with wide scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111.

“This performance wasn't good enough,” remarked the champion post-fight. “I'm glad I won, but I'm really tired. I'll rest and be much better next time.”

Despite giving up significant physical advantages to his opponent, the champion quickly asserted himself with sharp counterpunching and thudding combinations to the body. He stunned Picasso in the middle rounds and consistently broke through his guard, compelling him into a largely defensive posture as the fight progressed.

Laying the Groundwork for a Domestic Blockbuster

The triumph sets up a potential blockbuster clash with compatriot Junto Nakatani. Nakatani also emerged victorious on the same card, securing a unanimous decision in his debut at the 122-pound division.

“My goal in this weight class is to become champion,” declared the undefeated contender. “If I get that chance, I want to take it.”

The champion responded in kind while stopping short of a firm commitment. “Both of us had very good wins tonight,” he noted. “For next year, we will decide what happens. The fans can look forward to something special.”

The Potential of a Historic Fight

Should it be made, an Inoue–Nakatani fight—heavily speculated for 3 May at the legendary Tokyo Dome—would pit two unbeaten, multi-division titleholders in their peak years. This constitutes a unique event in modern boxing and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the most significant contest in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.