Junto Nakatani’s unanimous decision victory over Sebastian Hernandez in Riyadh was overshadowed by controversy after one official scorecard drew immediate outrage. While Nakatani emerged with a win on paper after 12 competitive rounds, the scoring disparity became the central talking point following the bout.
Saudi Arabian judge Nawaf Almohaimeed awarded Nakatani an emphatic 118-110 score, which was widely criticized as excessive and unreflective of the action in the ring, while the remaining two judges scored the contest 115-113 for Nakatani
Nakatani controlled the early portion of the fight with clean combinations and well-timed uppercuts, notably landing a heavy double uppercut in the sixth round that visibly shook Hernandez. His precision and ring control allowed him to bank early rounds and establish momentum.
Hernandez responded in the second half of the fight, forcing his way into the contest from Round 7 onward. His output increased steadily, and by Rounds 9 through 12, his pressure and accuracy made several rounds extremely close. Critics pointed out that these late-round exchanges were completely disregarded on Almohaimeed’s 118-110 card.
Despite the judging controversy, the bout reinforced Nakatani’s technical quality and composure at world level, while Hernandez’s performance significantly boosted his standing, proving he can compete with elite opposition.
Image Credit: Matchroom Boxing