Naoya Inoue and Murodjon Akhmadaliev are on course for an undisputed junior featherweight showdown in Japan this September, according to Akhmadaliev’s promoter Eddie Hearn. Talks have intensified after Hearn criticized Inoue for “ducking” his fighter by taking lesser bouts instead of fulfilling his mandatory obligation to defend the WBA title against the Uzbek contender.
Hearn says both camps have agreed on the framework for a fight, and the final paperwork is pending. Inoue is currently scheduled to meet Raymond Cardenas on May 4 in Las Vegas; however, his WBA strap could be at risk if he doesn’t face Akhmadaliev next. The Japanese superstar would be stripped of the belt if he refuses the mandatory defense, jeopardizing his undisputed status.
“We’re finalizing terms for Akhmadaliev to fight Inoue in September,” Hearn saud. “We’ve agreed terms and are waiting to sign a contract.” The move would allow Inoue to keep his WBA title through the Cardenas fight, ensuring any bout this spring remains a defense of his undisputed distinction - so long as he honors his commitment to face Akhmadaliev in the fall.
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