Junto Nakatani defeats Ryosuke Nishida to unify IBF and WBC bantamweight titles – next step: possible super fight against Naoya Inoue?
Tokyo, Japan – Three-time world champion Junto Nakatani (31-0, 24 knockouts) unified the IBF and WBC world bantamweight titles in a high-class clash at the Ariake Colosseum. The southpaw forced his compatriot Ryosuke Nishida (10-1, 2 knockouts) to retire in the corner of the ring after six dominant rounds.
Nakatani, who had previously won world championship gold in the flyweight, super flyweight and bantamweight divisions, repeatedly landed precise and powerful left straights to Nishida’s head. The effect was unmistakable: Nishida’s right eye swelled up so badly that he could no longer open it. The ringside doctor had no choice – the fight ended after round six. Technical knockout in favor of the new double champion.
“Since my time at flyweight, my goal has been to unify titles,” explained a visibly emotional Nakatani in the interview after the fight, which was broadcast live on Prime Video and ESPN+. “Finally, at bantamweight, I got my first chance. I’m very happy about the result.”
Nakatani made history with this victory. Despite his impressive record of over 30 professional fights, this was his first title unification at world champion level. A statement victory that not only underlines his class, but also opens new doors – especially for a mega-fight that Japanese boxing fans have been demanding for months.
We are talking about a possible clash with Japan’s boxing superstar Naoya Inoue (30-0, 27 knockouts), the reigning undisputed world super bantamweight champion. Inoue last defeated Mexico’s Ramon Cardenas in May and is due to face WBA mandatory challenger Murodjon Akhmadaliev in September.
Nakatani sent a clear message to “The Monster” Inoue after the fight: “I’m coming – please stick around for me.” It remains to be seen whether a blockbuster duel will take place between the two unbeaten Japanese pound-for-pound experts. But with today’s brilliant performance, Nakatani has more than made his bid clear.