In a thrilling showdown in Tokyo, Japan’s Naoya Inoue delivered a knockout blow to Marlon Tapales in the 10th round, cementing his status as a two-weight undisputed champion.
At 30 years old, Inoue showcased his ferocious skills, snatching Tapales’ IBF and WBA super-bantamweight belts to accompany his already impressive collection of the WBO and WBC titles.
Inoue had previously reigned as the undisputed bantamweight world champion, but he decided to relinquish those titles to venture into a new weight class.
“I believe that super-bantamweight is my division for the time being,” Inoue confidently stated. “In the upcoming years, I aspire to demonstrate that I can evolve into an even more formidable fighter.”
In an accomplishment reminiscent of American Terence Crawford, Inoue became only the second male boxer to unify all four world titles in two different weight categories.
His journey into the super-bantamweight arena commenced this summer, marked by a sensational victory over American Stephen Fulton, where he clinched the WBC and WBO belts.
However, his battle against the 31-year-old Tapales was anything but easy. In the fourth round, Inoue dropped the Filipino challenger, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion in the 10th round when a powerful right-hand strike secured his 26th career win, with 23 victories achieved by knockout.
Tapales had previously upset Uzbekistan’s Murodjon Akhmadaliev via split decision, claiming the IBF and WBA titles in April.
Inoue commented on the challenging bout, saying, “He proved to be an incredibly resilient opponent with an unyielding mindset. I believe that my ability to knock out such a formidable fighter in the 10th round is a testament to the dedication I’ve put into my craft. I feel relieved.”
Post-fight, Inoue, affectionately known as ‘The Monster,’ tantalized fans with the prospect of a major showdown in the spring of 2024.
“I believe many have heard rumors of a potential fight in May,” he teased. “However, I can’t reveal too much at this moment as negotiations are ongoing. But rest assured, I aim to bring joy to everyone by delivering an exceptional fight next year.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about undisputed champion
Who is Naoya Inoue?
Naoya Inoue is a Japanese boxer who recently secured his second undisputed championship title by defeating Marlon Tapales in Tokyo.
What weight class did Naoya Inoue compete in before this fight?
Inoue had previously been a bantamweight world champion before moving up to the super-bantamweight division for this match.
How did the fight against Marlon Tapales unfold?
Inoue put on a relentless performance, ultimately knocking out Tapales in the 10th round to claim the IBF and WBA super-bantamweight titles.
Has Naoya Inoue unified titles in different weight classes before?
Yes, Inoue is only the second male boxer in history, after Terence Crawford, to unify all four world titles in two different weight categories.
What were some of the notable moments in the fight?
In the fourth round, Inoue dropped Tapales with a powerful blow, setting the stage for his eventual victory in the 10th round with a hard right-hand punch.
What’s next for Naoya Inoue?
Inoue hinted at a potential big fight in the spring of 2024 but remained tight-lipped about the details as negotiations were ongoing. He expressed his desire to bring excitement to fans in the coming year.
What is Naoya Inoue’s nickname?
Naoya Inoue is affectionately known as ‘The Monster’ in the boxing world.
More about undisputed champion
- Naoya Inoue on Wikipedia
- Marlon Tapales – BoxRec
- Inoue’s Bantamweight Title Reign – ESPN
- Terence Crawford’s Achievements – The Ring
- Boxing News and Updates
5 comments
wow! Inoue is a real champ, knoing out Tapales in 10th, impresive!
Inoue’s like a machine in the ring, 2 weight champ now, cool stuff!
Can’t believe Inoue does boxing, what a multi-talented guy!
‘The Monster’ Inoue, luv his style, can’t wait for his nxt fight!
Didn’t no Inoue was in2 boxing, gr8 to see him win!