The Japanese champion Moves a Stride Nearer to Landmark Japanese Showdown After Commanding Win.

Naoya Inoue cleared the path for a highly-anticipated domestic mega-bout by retaining his championship belts with a unanimous decision over the Mexican challenger in Saudi Arabia on Saturday.

A Masterful Performance Over Twelve Rounds

Widely regarded as one of the planet's elite pound-for-pound fighters, Inoue was in complete control from the first round. He neutralized the once-undefeated Picasso with a combination of devastating precision, blistering speed, and sustained aggression. The official judges reflected his dominance with lopsided scores of 117-111, 119-109, and 120-108.

“I could have done better,” remarked the champion post-fight. “I am happy with the win, but I feel exhausted. I'll rest and be much better next time.”

Even while conceding significant physical advantages to his foe, Inoue quickly asserted himself with sharp counterpunching and hurtful combinations to the body. He wobbled Picasso midway through the bout and repeatedly pierced his guard, forcing him into a largely defensive posture as the fight progressed.

Setting the Stage for a National Spectacle

The win arranges a possible historic encounter with fellow countryman the rising star. Nakatani scored his own win on the undercard, earning a unanimous decision in his debut at the 122-pound division.

“I moved up to this division to win world titles,” said Nakatani. “Should the opportunity arise, I will seize it.”

Inoue echoed the interest without making a definite announcement. “Both of us had very good wins tonight,” he noted. “Plans for next year will be made in due course. But Japanese fans should expect something very good.”

The Prospect of a Historic Fight

If finalized, an Inoue–Nakatani fight—widely rumored for 3 May at the legendary venue—would feature two undefeated, multi-division champions in their peak years. This represents a rarity in modern boxing and is viewed by many as a candidate to be the most significant contest in the nation's storied boxing history.