Naoya Inoue, the undisputed junior featherweight champion and one of boxing's pound-for-pound elites, may delay his anticipated move to featherweight in favor of a significant clash at 122 pounds. Discussions are intensifying for a potential bout between Inoue and unbeaten Mexican contender David Picasso, with a targeted date in April 2025 in Las Vegas.
Picasso, the WBC’s No. 1 contender, has been pushing for the opportunity to face Inoue. Represented by Zanfer Promotions, Picasso’s team views this fight as a natural progression for the 24-year-old, who has had a busy year with four wins and another fight scheduled on December 14 in Tijuana.
"This is his path," said Rene Aviles, a representative of Picasso’s promoter. "He wants the biggest fights and aims to be a world champion."
For Inoue, who is defending his titles on Christmas Eve against Sam Goodman, the potential matchup with Picasso would mark his most high-profile U.S. fight to date. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum confirmed that plans for an April bout in Las Vegas are underway, with Picasso emerging as a front-runner.
"He's a high-volume puncher with a smart boxing style." Aviles said of Picasso. "He’s passed every test so far and feels ready for Inoue."
If finalized, the bout will pit Picasso’s durability and volume against Inoue’s power and precision. Fans eagerly await confirmation, which Arum has promised following Inoue’s December fight. Should the bout materialize, it would further solidify Inoue’s global status and provide Picasso a chance to prove himself on the biggest stage.
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