Bob Arum, an esteemed promoter in the realm of boxing, has recently laid out a compelling vision for unified super-bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue’s 2025 fight plans. As the excitement grows in the boxing community, particularly around Japan’s rising stars, Inoue’s upcoming matches promise not just competitive bouts but significant historical moments for the sport. The anticipation surrounding Inoue, nicknamed “The Monster,” is palpable, especially with the lined-up engagements against IBF mandatory challenger Sam Goodman and also the enigmatic Mexican contender Alan David Picasso.
Arum’s comments to Sky Sports have cast light on the meticulous scheduling that aims to maximize interest and draw fans into the arena. Following Inoue’s bout on January 24 against Goodman, who himself boasts an impressive 19-0 record, the fans are looking forward to his return to the U.S. Notably, this next match could be crucial for setting the stage for a thrilling showdown with Nakatani. The prospect of a significant all-Japanese fight is electrifying in a country fiercely supportive of its boxing talent.
Significantly, Arum proposes that if both Inoue and his compatriot Junto Nakatani maintain their undefeated statuses after their upcoming fights, they will engage in an epic clash at Tokyo Dome later this year. Arum has averred that such a showdown could mark “the biggest in the history of Japan.” For boxing purists and casual fans alike, this potential match-up is one to watch, given that both fighters bring not only impressive records but distinct styles that could make for an enthralling spectacle.
However, pressure is mounting, and with their ambitious plans set, both fighters cannot afford any missteps. With Inoue’s unblemished record of 28 wins and 25 knockouts, he will need to face the threats posed by Goodman and Picasso decisively. Picasso, who holds an impressive record of 31-0-1, is described by Arum as a promising fighter, thus raising stakes even higher. Similarly, Nakatani, currently 29-0 with 22 knockouts, must navigate his own challenges, including his February 24 WBC bantamweight title defense against David Cuellar.
While anticipation builds for the matches involving Inoue and Nakatani, critics, particularly Murodjon Akhmadaliev—who considers himself a significant contender—has been vocal regarding Inoue’s decisions. Akhmadaliev’s public claims suggest that he feels overlooked, alleging that Inoue might be ducking a bout with him in favor of easier opponents. This ongoing dialogue adds an intriguing layer to the narrative surrounding the upcoming fights.
Arum has outlined his firm schedule, stating, “The December 24 fight [against Goodman, which was postponed due to a cut] is now going to be held on January 24 so that’s done, written in stone.” His assurance strengthens the belief that boxing entities are serious about these match-ups, and they are structuring events designed to build up to a climactic end-of-year showdown.
The boxing community is holding its breath as these fighters look to deliver electrifying performances in their respective bouts. The staged double-header planned for April in Las Vegas—which will reportedly involve both Inoue and Nakatani—could serve as a high-stakes preview for their potential clash in Japan. With fans around the world eagerly waiting to see how these champions match up in their next fights, the outcomes could divert or solidify paths toward an all-Japanese face-off that many enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating.
Ultimately, as the bout dates approach and tension rises, the spotlight shines brightly on Inoue. Will he solidify his legacy in the sport? And can Nakatani rise to the challenge? The answers lie in the upcoming battles, each a critical chapter in the unfolding saga of modern boxing.