Naoya Inoue Outguns Junto Nakatani by Unanimous Decision, Retains Undisputed Title | FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS

On one of boxing’s biggest stages, inside the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Naoya Inoue (27-0, 24 KOs) delivered yet another elite performance, defeating fellow unbeaten star Junto Nakatani (28-1, 21 KOs) by 12-round unanimous decision to retain his undisputed super bantamweight championship in a long-anticipated all-Japanese superfight.

With all four major world titles at 122 pounds on the line, Inoue looked to further cement his pound-for-pound dominance, while Nakatani aimed to move up in weight and capture undisputed glory in a historic clash between two of Japan’s best.

GRAND ENTRANCES SET THE STAGE

The magnitude of the fight was clear before the opening bell.

Nakatani made a statement on his walk to the ring, wearing a glittering gold hooded robe, calm and composed under the bright lights. Moments later, Inoue entered to an elaborate display of fireworks and fire, pumping his fist to the crowd with laser focus, accompanied by his father and brother as he made his way to the ring.

INOUE CONTROLS EARLY WITH PRECISION

Once the action began, both fighters approached with discipline and respect.

In Round 3, Inoue pressed forward behind his jab, measuring distance and looking to set up his counter right hand. Nakatani, fighting from the southpaw stance, worked to establish his own jab and rhythm, aiming to neutralize Inoue’s timing.

MOMENTUM SHIFTS IN MID-ROUNDS

By Round 6, the exchanges intensified.

Nakatani landed a clean 1-2 combination, briefly finding success, but Inoue responded immediately with a sharp counter right, keeping the challenger honest and maintaining control of the tempo.

FIREWORKS IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP ROUNDS

Round 9 brought one of the fight’s most dramatic moments.

Nakatani connected with a lead right uppercut that caught Inoue as he stepped in, sparking a heated exchange as both fighters stood their ground and traded heavy shots to close the round.

In Round 10, a clash of heads left Nakatani with a cut, creating additional adversity as the fight entered its final stretch.

INOUE CLOSES STRONG

Sensing the urgency, Inoue elevated his pressure in Round 11, walking Nakatani down behind powerful combinations and asserting his dominance.

In the final round, Inoue showcased his composure and ring IQ, countering effectively while slipping incoming shots. As the bell rang, both fighters embraced in a show of mutual respect after twelve hard-fought rounds.

OFFICIAL DECISION

When the final bell rang and the scorecards were read, Naoya “The Monster” Inoue defeated Junto Nakatani by 12-round unanimous decision, with the judges scoring it 116-112, 115-113 and 116-112, retaining his undisputed super bantamweight title.

According to CompuBox, it was a closely contested fight, with Inoue narrowly outlanding Nakatani 140 to 120 in total punches, including a slim 84 to 74 edge in power shots, highlighting how competitive the exchanges were throughout. 

With the victory, Inoue continues to strengthen his case as one of the best fighters in the world, adding another signature win to his already historic résumé. 🥊