Naoya Inoue is set to defend his undisputed super bantamweight championship against TJ Doheny on September 3rd at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The highly anticipated event will be broadcast live on ESPN+, giving boxing fans around the world a chance to witness the action.
Despite being considered a veteran in the sport at 37 years old, TJ Doheny has managed to secure victories over fighters like Bryl Bayogos, Japhethlee Llamido, and Kazuki Nakajima. However, the quality of his opponents has been questioned, as they are not widely recognized names in the boxing world. Doheny’s ascent in the rankings following these wins raises eyebrows, especially considering his multiple defeats in the years leading up to this title bout.
In contrast, Naoya Inoue’s journey to becoming the undisputed super bantamweight champion was swift and dominant. Within a year, he managed to collect all the belts in the 122-pound division, solidifying his status as a top-tier boxer. However, critics argue that Inoue’s path to glory was facilitated by a relatively weak division, making his accomplishments seem less impressive compared to conquering more competitive weight classes.
Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum has hailed Naoya Inoue as a generational talent, noting the widespread anticipation whenever he steps into the ring. Doheny, despite his age and recent setbacks, is not to be underestimated, given his track record of defying expectations, particularly when fighting in Japan. The upcoming clash between these two fighters promises to be a spectacle that fans won’t want to miss.
In addition to the headline match between Inoue and Doheny, the event will showcase other exciting bouts, including WBO bantamweight world champion Yoshiki Takei facing off against Daigo Higa, as well as light welterweight contender Ismael Barroso taking on Andy Hiraoka. The lineup offers a mix of experience and rising talent, adding further intrigue to an already stacked fight card.
As discussions swirl about Naoya Inoue’s next moves after his fight with Doheny, speculations are rife about potential matchups against top contenders in the super bantamweight division. While some fans advocate for a temporary stay at 122 pounds and a showdown against Murodjon Akhmadaliev, others believe it’s time for Inoue to test his skills in the featherweight division against tougher opponents. The decision to stay or move up in weight could significantly impact Inoue’s legacy in the sport.
The clash between Naoya Inoue and TJ Doheny offers a compelling narrative of youth versus experience, skill versus resilience. The outcome of this bout could shape the future trajectory of both fighters and the broader landscape of the super bantamweight division. Boxing enthusiasts await eagerly for the bell to ring and the action to unfold in what promises to be a memorable spectacle in Tokyo.