What's Happening?
Naoya Inoue successfully defended his undisputed super bantamweight title against Alan Picasso on December 27, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight took place at Mohammed Abdo Arena and was streamed live on DAZN. Inoue, known as 'The Monster,' maintained his perfect record with a unanimous decision victory, bringing his record to 32-0 with 27 knockouts. Despite the lopsided scorecards, Picasso managed to earn some respect by making Inoue appear more human than usual. Inoue's offensive volume proved too much for Picasso, who struggled to make a significant impact on the scorecards. The event was part of the Ring V: Night of the Samurai card, which featured Japanese boxers in each of the five bouts.
Why It's Important?
This victory solidifies Naoya Inoue's status
as a dominant force in the super bantamweight division. His ability to maintain an undefeated record while defending his title enhances his reputation and marketability in the boxing world. The fight also sets the stage for a potential Japanese superfight, as Junto Nakatani, who also won on the undercard, emerges as a likely challenger. Such a matchup could generate significant interest and revenue, particularly in Japan, where boxing has a strong following. The event highlights the global appeal of boxing, with major fights taking place in diverse locations like Saudi Arabia, further expanding the sport's reach and audience.
What's Next?
Following his victory, Naoya Inoue hinted at the possibility of a major fight for Japanese fans next year, though he did not commit to any specific plans. The potential for a superfight with Junto Nakatani, who also remains undefeated, could be a significant draw. Promoters will likely explore this matchup, considering the excitement it could generate among fans and the financial benefits it could bring. The boxing community will be watching closely for announcements regarding Inoue's next opponent and any developments in the super bantamweight division.
