Naoya Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) and Luis Nery (35-1, 27 KOs) will clash at one of the most iconic venues in sport.
The two fighters meet in the main event of a card on May 6. Inoue will be making the first defence of his status as undisputed champion. Fight fans in the United States can catch the action live on ESPN+, while those in the United Kingdom and Ireland will do so on Sky Sports.
Inoue-Nery takes place at the Tokyo Dome. This was the venue where “Iron” Mike Tyson lost via tenth-round stoppage to James “Buster” Douglas, a fight considered one of the biggest shocks in sporting history. Over 34 years later, the venue will host its third-ever boxing event.
Naoya Inoue and Luis Nery Fight at Iconic Japanese Venue
Naoya Inoue vs. Luis Nery Press Conference
Ahead of their clash on Monday, both men spoke at a final press conference. Both were clear in stating their readiness for the undisputed bout. Below is some of what they had to say.
Inoue
“Mentally speaking, I feel that this day has finally arrived,” said Inoue in Japanese. “I heard that my opponent is in very good shape. I am confident that we can have a tremendous fight.”
“This fight will be the main event at the Tokyo Dome. I want to show an exciting fight. I want everyone to see me win, I will make sure I knock him out.”
Nery
“Mentally, we have been preparing since we found out about the fight,” said Nery in Spanish. “Physically, I am in perfect condition. It was the best camp that I had in my life. It has been about nine years since I was able to make weight a full day before the weigh-in. Today, we are on weight. That means that the preparation was good. It should add something extra for me on fight night.”
Fight Prediction
Both men have a reputation for knocking their opponents out. Viewers should not expect this fight to go the distance at all. Big Fight Weekend believes that this will be over within six rounds. Expect Inoue to show his class as he outboxes Nery until the knockout blow is landed.
Press Conference Highlights
For press conference highlights featuring Inoue, Nery and other undercard fighters, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Top Rank Boxing.
More must-reads: