Naoya Inoue defends all belts in the Superbantam for the fifth time on Sunday in the IG Arena in Nagoya – against Akhmadaliev, the monster’s “strongest opponent” to date.
The next monster test is coming up: Naoya Inoue defends all super bantamweight belts for the fifth time on Sunday at the IG Arena in Nagoya. His opponent will be former unified champion Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev, the current WBA interim title holder. Inoue brings with him a perfect record of 30-0 (27 knockouts), Akhmadaliev travels with a 14-1 (11 knockouts) record – and a message of his own.
Inoue raised expectations at the press conference – and remained vigilant at the same time. “He is the strongest opponent of my career,” said the 32-year-old. “I will arm myself with vigilance and be on my guard.” The P4P superstar last defeated Ramon Cardenas by T.K.O. after eight rounds. Inoue has been the undisputed ruler of the 122-pound limit since December 2023.
Akhmadaliev brings a LOT of technique and physicality – and works with the same coaching staff as Cardenas. He wants to break Inoue’s zero and take the crown in the Superbantam. Inoue accepts the pressure without insisting on spectacle: “A decision is okay this time,” says the champion. It is precisely this composure that makes him dangerous: changes of pace, precise jab, short hooks to the body – that is Inoue’s blueprint.
The undercard provides additional highlights: Yoshiki Takei (11-0, 9 knockouts) puts his WBO bantam belt on the line against Christian Medina Jimenez. In addition, Yuni Takada and Ryusei Matsumoto will fight for the vacant WBA minimumweight title.
Text by Robin Josten