Highlights
- Inoue showed resilience by recovering from a knockdown to defeat Nery in a thrilling match at the Tokyo Dome.
- Despite his superstar status in Japan, Inoue has yet to reach international fame, with opportunities awaiting in the US.
- Inoue is set to pocket a hefty 1 billion yen from his bout with Nery, solidifying his status as a top pound-for-pound fighter.
Naoya Inoue reaffirmed his status as one of the world’s premier pound-for-pound fighter in a thrilling bout on Monday. The undisputed junior featherweight champion faced off against Luis Nery at the Tokyo Dome in front of a captivated crowd of approximately 50,000 spectators.
The Japanese star picked up another lucrative purse, adding millions to his net worth. While Inoue is yet to make his debut in the United States, he is a superstar in Japan with numerous lucrative sponsorship deals and star power that tempts rivals to come to his home turf to get a crack at the champion.
Naoya Inoue Survives A Knock Down To Finish Luis Nery With A Spectacular Knockout
Naoya Inoue holds onto his undisputed title after destroying Luis Nery in six rounds.
Naoya Inoue Set To Earn 1 Billion Yen For Luis Nery Victory
The Japanese Star Demands A Huge Purse
Reports indicate that Inoue is set to pocket a hefty 1 billion yen (approximately $9.3 million) in his bout against Nery, complemented by numerous lucrative sponsorship and endorsement agreements, according to the BBC.
Yet, despite his substantial following in Japan, where he has competed in 22 matches, some argue that he has yet to attain the international superstar status commensurate with his accomplishments. Opportunities await him in the United States, where participation in pay-per-view events could significantly amplify his earnings.
Inoue Picks Himself From The Canvas To Knockout Nery
The Fight Was An Entertaining Spectacle
The electrifying showdown began with an unexpected twist as Inoue found himself on the canvas for the first time in his illustrious 12-year professional career. A thunderous left hook from Nery sent shockwaves through the arena, momentarily silencing the crowd. However, Inoue, known as “The Monster,” quickly regained his composure and launched a remarkable comeback.
Displaying unmatched determination and focus, Inoue turned the tide of the fight by flooring his opponent in the second and fifth rounds. The climax came in the sixth round when a devastating right hook from Inoue sealed the deal, securing a technical knockout victory.
This triumph marks another milestone in Inoue’s stellar career, which has seen him amass an undefeated record of 21 wins, including 19 knockouts in world championship fights.
Facing off against the formidable Nery, a former two-division world champion, Inoue demonstrated his resilience and championship pedigree. Despite the odds stacked against him, Nery entered the ring as a 10-1 underdog, facing a hostile crowd in Tokyo.
Nery, known for his precision and power as a southpaw fighter from Tijuana, delivered a formidable challenge to Inoue. In the closing moments of the first round, Nery landed a flush left hand that sent Inoue to the canvas. However, Inoue showed remarkable composure, rising to his feet at the count of eight and weathering Nery’s subsequent attacks until the bell sounded.
Inoue’s victory not only solidifies his standing as the undisputed junior featherweight champion but also further cements his legacy as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
