Inoue Fires Back At Critics Demanding US Fights

Naoya Inoue has hit back at critics who have stated that he must fight in the US.

Inoue is one of boxing’s biggest superstars when it comes to accomplishments. He is a four-division champion and the only person to become undisputed in a second weight class alongside Terence Crawford. The boxer is the current Undisputed Super Bantamweight champion. His feats have put him near the top of the pound-for-pound rankings.

While that may have been the case, Inoue largely fights in Japan. This has created the narrative that he must cross the border to fight in the US and be considered a global star. Inoue does have crossover appeal, given the nature of his fighting style. He fights on the front foot and has drawn comparisons with Manny Pacquiao. Shawn Porter was adamant that Inoue had to make the journey to the US.

“In boxing, you’ve got to come to the US, you’ve got to cross those seas and knock down some Americans to make these other Americans (the US fight fans) take notice of what you’re doing. There’s a lot of people who respect Inoue and what he’s doing. But if you’re someone like me, you’re saying, ‘Hey, let’s get him out of his own backyard, get him a little uncomfortable and see how he handles the energy when he’s not at home,” Porter said 

Inoue Reacts

However, the Japanese has dismissed claims that he must fight in the US to extend his brand.

“In response to the comment saying he should come to America and play a match??? The home of the lightweight division (the lower weight divisions) is now here in Japan. If you want to see the game, come to Japan. If there is something better than what is available in the Japanese market in America, I would be happy to go. That’s all worth it here in Japan,” Inoue replied  

Nevertheless, it is essential to bear in mind the following factors. Inoue has already fought in the US on two occasions. He knocked out Michael Dasmarinas in 2021 during a fight in Vegas. That was before stopping Jason Moloney in Vegas.

That shows Inoue has the skill set to handle the pressure at the highest level. Joe Calzaghe was also accused of something similar. He retired with an undefeated record of 46-0 and only fought in the US during the latter parts of his career. But based on what he has seen so far, Inoue’s promoter, Bob Arum, was in awe over the Japanese’s talent.

Arum On Inoue