Naoya Inoue reveals future plans with trip to Riyadh imminent

Naoya Inoue's next fight is already planned

Naoya Inoue (31-0, 27 KO’s) may have failed to find a stoppage, but he continued to showcase his boxing prestige with a masterful performance over Murodjon Akhmadaliev (14-2, 11 KO’s).

The judges scored the bout unanimously in favour of the reigning champion, with two scorecards reading 118-110, and a third 117-111

The Japanese native started slowly, utilising his jab to take control over the opening rounds. 

However, as his confidence grew, the undefeated superstar moved from strength to strength. His footwork flourished, and he moved in and out of range, landing spiteful combinations with ease. 

Despite numerous efforts, Akhmadaliev never managed to find a consistent home for his mammoth right hand.

Rightfully feared for his devastating power, the undisputed champion's technical ability is often overlooked. It was on full display on Sunday, as he boxed beautifully, landing at will against the Olympic bronze medalist. 

“I used a great strategy, using my speed and technique,” Inoue stated post-fight. “I stuck to my game plan and was happy to go the distance. I proved that I could fight smart tonight.”

The fight marked Inoue’s fifth undisputed super bantamweight title defence, and has set him up for some huge fights in the coming year. 

Picasso and Nakatani

Following the bout, the 32-year-old confirmed that he plans to return in December, saying goodbye to the stadiums of Japan for just the second time in four years, to fight on a Riyadh card. 

The card is touted to take place on Dec 27, with the undefeated David Picasso (32-0-1, 17 KO’s) as his expected opponent. 

However, in the eyes of many, his December clash will serve only as a layover, with boxing eagerly waiting on his seemingly inevitable bout with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani (31-0, 24 KO’s).

Nakatani - who was stationed at ringside - has an equally terrifying record. Crowned champion in three separate weight classes, he looks the only man in the lighter divisions who is capable of matching Inoue’s devastating power.