Tokyo witnessed a historic night in boxing as Naoya Inoue tried to become a champion once again in a fight against Marlon Tapales. The event, filled with action-packed bouts, showcased the skill and determination of fighters from various weight classes.
In the main event, Naoya “Monster” Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) managed to win against Marlon “Nightmare” Tapales (37-4, 19 KOs) in a highly anticipated unification bout. Inoue, known for his explosive power and technical prowess, dominated the early rounds, displaying his superior boxing skills. Despite Tapales’ resilience, Inoue’s relentless pressure and precise combinations proved too much, leading to a dramatic tenth-round knockout. This victory not only solidified Inoue’s status as the undisputed champion but also elevated his legacy in the sport.
Watch Inoue’s reaction after becoming an undisputed world champion: Watch
The undercard featured Saiya Tsutsumi (10-0-2, 7 KOs) and Kazuki Anaguchi (6-1, 2 KOs) in a thrilling contest, with Tsutsumi emerging victorious after scoring multiple knockdowns. The fight was a testament to both boxers’ skills and heart, as they exchanged heavy blows and showcased their resilience. Tsutsumi’s victory was a significant step forward in his promising career.
Other notable bouts included Kanamu Sakama’s (9-0, 8 KOs) fifth-round stoppage victory over John Paul Gabunilas (10-3, 7 KOs), showcasing Sakama’s power and technical ability. Additionally, Yoshiki Takei (8-0, 8 KOs) continued his impressive run with a second-round knockout of Mario Diaz (21-7, 9 KOs), further establishing himself as a rising star in the super bantamweight division.
Image Credit: Naoki Fukuda