Home » Inoue shares logic for challenging Nakatani, braces for US return

Inoue shares logic for challenging Nakatani, braces for US return

Naoya Inoue shares the logic for him challenging Junto Nakatani last month, even as he braces for his US return in May.

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INOUE SHARES REASON WHY HE CHALLENGED NAKATANI FOR POTENTIAL 2026 MEGA-FIGHT

Inoue shares the reason why he challenged Nakatani for a potential 2026 mega-fight.

Furthermore, the 32-year-old unbeaten undisputed champion approached Nakatani at the Japanese Boxing Awards on March 31 and verbally made the offer.

Moreover, Nakatani accepted Inoue’s offer, sparking excited among boxing circles not just in Japan but worldwide.

Inoue addressed the matter after he was asked by FightsATW’s Abraham Gonzalez about it.

The fighter also known as “The Monster” then asked the question back to reporters if they wanted such fight to happen.

After the journalists said “yes,” Inoue responded with “that’s why” through an interpreter.

‘THE MONSTER,’ JUNTO STILL HAVE UNFINISHED BUSINESSES BEFORE REACHING 2026 BOUT

The two Japanese boxing champions, however, will need to settle some “unfinished businesses” before they reach their 2026 bout.

Moreover, Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) must first beat Ramon Cardenas in his return to the US for Cinco De Mayo weekend at T-Mobile Arena on May 4.

Furthermore, “The Monster” also has to hurdle Murodjon Akhmadaliev in his Saudi Arabia fight in September.

On the other hand, Nakatani (30-0, 23 KOs) is scheduled to face IBF champion Ryosuke Nishida (10-0, 2 KOs) in a unification bout on June 8.

That bout will take place at the Ariake Colosseum in Japan.

NAOYA VALUES US RETURN, BEING PART OF ‘CINCO DE MAYO’ WEEKEND IN LAS VEGAS

Inoue values his return to fighting in the US after he became a household name in Japan.

Furthermore, “The Monster” faced reporters after his media workout at the Westside Boxing Gym on Wednesday.

Moreover, he’s looking forward to get back on top of the pound-for-pound list.

“I don’t know if I’ll make it back to No. 1 with this fight, but with September, December and next year … I hope to get back with those fights,” Inoue said.

“I’m really looking forward to it. I know it is a legendary day for boxing, and I’m very pleased I’m in the main event,” he added.