🔗 Share this article Naoya Inoue Takes a Step Nearer to Historic Japanese Clash Following Dominant Victory. The undisputed super-bantamweight king cleared the path for a long-awaited domestic mega-bout by retaining his undisputed titles with a clear points victory over Alan Picasso in Riyadh on fight night. A Controlled Display Over Twelve Rounds Widely regarded as one of the planet's elite pound-for-pound fighters, "The Monster" was in complete control from the first round. He stifled the previously unbeaten challenger with a blend of pinpoint accuracy, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The scorecards reflected his superiority with wide scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108. “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 opponent, the champion quickly asserted himself with sharp counterpunching and thudding combinations to the body. He stunned Picasso in the middle rounds and repeatedly pierced his guard, compelling him into a survival mode as the contest wore on. Setting the Stage for a Domestic Blockbuster The triumph arranges a possible blockbuster clash with fellow countryman Junto Nakatani. Nakatani scored his own win on the same card, securing a points victory in his first fight 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.” Inoue responded in kind without making a firm commitment. “We both performed well this evening,” he noted. “Plans for next year will be made in due course. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.” The Potential of a Historic Battle Should it be made, an Inoue–Nakatani bout—widely rumored for early May at the iconic Tokyo Dome—would feature two unbeaten, multi-division titleholders in their peak years. This represents a rarity in today's sport and is considered by experts as a candidate to be the most significant contest in Japan's rich pugilistic heritage.