Naoya Inoue Outclasses Junto Nakatani by Unanimous Decision at Tokyo Dome

Naoya Inoue celebrates his unanimous decision victory over Junto Nakatani at Tokyo Dome. TOKYO, Japan — In front of 55,000 witnesses at the Tokyo Dome, Naoya "The Monster" Inoue did what he has always done. He imposed his will, broke down his opponent piece by piece, and reminded the world why he sits alone at the top of boxing's pound-for-pound rankings.

Inoue defeated Junto Nakatani by unanimous decision Saturday night, with judges scoring it 116-112, 116-112, and 115-113 to retain his undisputed super bantamweight championship. It was a tactical masterpiece. Two elite fighters, both entering unbeaten at 32-0, spent the early rounds setting traps and measuring distance in a chess match worthy of the historic stage.

Through the first six rounds, Inoue controlled the pace but Nakatani made him work for every inch, the younger man's southpaw stance and physical advantages keeping the fight competitive. Through six rounds the fight was close, with Inoue holding a narrow edge. Then round seven changed the fight's complexion.

Inoue began to assert himself in ways that only he can. The body work came with more intent. The angles sharpened.