On May 2, 2026, Naoya Inoue overcame a strong challenge from Junto Nakatani at the Tokyo Dome, securing a unanimous decision victory to retain his undisputed super-bantamweight title. The fight was intense, with Nakatani applying pressure in the middle rounds, yet Inoue’s experience shone through.
The stakes were high as both fighters entered the ring undefeated, each boasting impressive records. Inoue improved to 33-0, while Nakatani fell to 32-1. This bout not only showcased their skills but also highlighted the significance of maintaining an undefeated status in boxing history.
Inoue’s performance was marked by resilience. After being knocked down twice between 2024 and 2025, he demonstrated his ability to rebound against a formidable opponent. The fight drew a sellout crowd of 55,000, eager to witness this clash of titans at the iconic Tokyo Dome.
Key statistics:
- Inoue scored 27 KOs in his career.
- Nakatani achieved 24 KOs.
- The scorecards read: 116-112, 115-113, and 116-112.
- The fight lasted all 12 rounds.
A notable moment occurred in Round 10 when a clash of heads opened a cut over Nakatani’s left eye—this incident shifted momentum back to Inoue. He regained control in the final two rounds, showcasing his tactical prowess and ability to adapt under pressure.
This victory holds significant value for Inoue. He stated, “This victory is very valuable for me because Junto Nakatani is also a pound-for-pound top-ranking athlete.” His words reflect not just pride but also respect for the competition he faced.
The anticipation around this match stemmed from its setup last December when both fighters competed on the same card in Saudi Arabia. Fans eagerly awaited this showdown, knowing it would add another chapter to their careers.
The future remains uncertain for both fighters. While Inoue continues his reign as the unified champion, potential challengers loom on the horizon. Meanwhile, Nakatani will undoubtedly regroup and seek redemption after this hard-fought battle.
