Inoue’s Dazzling Performance Revives Boxing Weekend
By Andreas Hale | May 5, 2025, 02:06 AM ET
This past weekend, boxing enthusiasts anticipated a thrilling lineup featuring stars like Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, and Devin Haney. Unfortunately, their matches failed to deliver. However, Naoya Inoue stepped up to the plate, providing a spectacular bout that reignited excitement within the sport. Competing against Ramon Cardenas at T-Mobile Arena, Inoue retained his undisputed junior featherweight championship with an impressive eighth-round stoppage, showcasing his status as a top-tier fighter.
Fight Overview
The fight was a captivating display of skill and determination. Inoue faced adversity early on, being knocked down in Round 2, yet he maintained his composure. Cardenas displayed remarkable resilience; however, Inoue’s relentless aggression ultimately led to a decisive victory that fans will remember. This win not only reaffirmed Inoue’s position as ESPN’s No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter but also rescued the weekend from being a missed opportunity for boxing fans.
Performance Statistics
| Punches | Inoue | Cardenas |
|---|---|---|
| Total landed | 176 | 80 |
| Total thrown | 462 | 290 |
| Percent | 38.1% | 27.6% |
| Jabs landed | 68 | 35 |
| Jabs thrown | 242 | 158 |
| Percent | 28.1% | 22.2% |
| Power punches landed | 108 | 45 |
| Power punches thrown | 220 | 132 |
| Percent | 49.1% | 34.1% |
Future Prospects
Inoue’s ambitions extend beyond his current success. As one of only three male boxers to achieve undisputed status in two weight classes, he is not resting on his laurels. He has hinted at moving up to featherweight, aiming for a historic third undisputed title. His next challenge is set against Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev in Tokyo this September, with potential matchups against bantamweight champion Junto Nakatani on the horizon in 2026.
What Sets Inoue Apart
Naoya Inoue’s fighting style is characterized by his aggressive tactics and a commendable knockout rate of 90%, making him one of the sport’s most thrilling figures. His 11 consecutive knockout victories, all secured in title bouts, speak volumes about his prowess in the ring. Unlike some competitors, Inoue prioritizes decisive finishes over leaving results to the judges, winning over fans with his electrifying performances.
In conclusion, Inoue is not only among the elite in boxing, but he is also a captivating presence that keeps audiences eager for more.