Japanese boxing sensation Naoya "The Monster" Inoue is gearing up for an ambitious 2025 campaign, setting his sights on further cementing his legacy as one of the sport's all-time greats. With plans to fight across three continents, Inoue’s schedule is packed with high-stakes matchups that could further solidify his dominance in the super bantamweight division and beyond.
Here’s a breakdown of Inoue’s three-fight plan for 2025:
June 2025: Alan David "El Rey" Picasso in Las Vegas
Inoue’s first bout of the year is set for Las Vegas, where he will take on Mexico’s Alan David "El Rey" Picasso, the interim WBC super bantamweight champion. This fight marks Inoue’s return to the U.S., a key market where he has been building his global fan base.
Picasso, known for his technical prowess and agility, is a dangerous and skilled opponent who could push Inoue to the limit. However, a dominant victory here would further solidify Inoue’s reign at 122 pounds and prove his superiority against the division’s rising stars.
September 2025: Homecoming Fight in Japan (Opponent TBD)
Following his U.S. bout, Inoue will return to Japan for a highly anticipated fight in September 2025. While the opponent has yet to be determined, speculation is growing about a potential clash against top-ranked super bantamweights or even a move up to featherweight.
A fight on home soil is always a major event for Inoue, who remains a national icon in Japan. The Japanese fanbase will undoubtedly pack the arena to see their pound-for-pound king defend his throne.
December 2025: Saudi Arabia Mega Fight (Opponent TBD)
Inoue will close out the year with a high-profile fight in Saudi Arabia as part of the Riyadh Season in December 2025. This fight represents Inoue’s growing global reach and highlights Saudi Arabia’s increasing presence in the boxing world.
While his opponent remains undecided, discussions suggest a major showdown, possibly against a champion from a neighboring weight class. A move to featherweight could be on the horizon if Inoue decides to chase more history.
Bob Arum Confirms Plans for Inoue’s Global Tour
Top Rank promoter Bob Arum has confirmed these plans, stating that Inoue is determined to showcase his skills on multiple continents and continue proving why he is considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits Inoue’s next move, one thing is certain: The Monster is far from done making history.
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