Japanese boxing sensation: Inoue Dethrones Cardenas, Retains Super Bantamweight Crown in Thrilling TKO Win

Naoya Inoue solidified his reign as the undisputed super bantamweight champion with an electrifying eighth round stoppage of Ramon Cardenas in Las Vegas.

The Japanese boxing sensation, now 30 0 with 27 knockouts, faced a shocking moment in the second round when Cardenas landed a left hook, sending Inoue to the canvas for just the second time in his career. Unfazed, Inoue regained his composure, adjusted his distance, and methodically broke down the resilient American. The fight turned in the seventh round when Inoue’s punishing body shot and a series of right hands dropped Cardenas.

 At the start of the eighth, Inoue unleashed a relentless assault, staggering Cardenas with a brutal right, prompting referee Thomas Taylor to halt the contest. Inoue, in his first fight outside Japan since 2021, showcased his signature blend of precision and power, proving why he’s nicknamed “The Monster.” Despite Cardenas’ courage in a slugfest fourth round, Inoue’s dominance prevailed.

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 Reflecting post fight, Inoue admitted the knockdown caught him off guard but credited his calm recovery for the victory. Meanwhile, on the undercard, Mexico’s unbeaten Rafael Espinosa improved to 27 0, stopping American Edward Vazquez in the seventh round to defend his WBO featherweight title. Espinosa boldly called out Inoue, eyeing a high profile clash that could elevate his career. The night underscored Inoue’s resilience and star power while highlighting Espinosa as a rising contender in the featherweight division. 

Fans are already buzzing about Inoue’s next move and whether Espinosa could one day share the ring with the pound for pound great.