Naoya Inoue has little doubt who the best fighter on the planet is.
The Japanese sensation known as ‘The Monster’ has lived up to his nickname time after time throughout his professional career, racking up 27 stoppage victories in his 30 fights.
After capturing the undisputed championship at bantamweight with a victory over Paul Butler in 2022, Inoue made the move up to super-bantamweight shortly after and achieved undisputed status once again when he defeated Marlon Tapales at the end of 2023.
He has made four successful defences of his crown at 122lbs, defeating the likes of Luis Nery, TJ Doheny and Ramon Cardenas. ‘The Monster’ has stopped every opponent he has faced since 2019, with his last points win coming against Filipino great Nonito Donaire.
Inoue is expected to make a return to the ring before the end of the year, as he gears up to face former unified super-bantamweight champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev, who has been on the Japanese star’s radar for a number of the years.
It is no surprise that he is considered by many as the best fighter in the world, pound-for-pound. Speaking on Cigar Talk, Inoue was asked to name which fighter he ranks the highest between himself and fellow unbeaten stars Oleksandr Usyk and Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford.
“I do this because I believe I am number one.”
Crawford and Usyk are undoubtedly two of the best in the world. Their exceptional ring IQ, undefeated records, and rare ability to dominate across multiple weight classes with elite skill, precision, and adaptability proof.
Inoue has been tipped to move up to featherweight before long, with many fans calling for the 32-year-old to face reigning WBA world featherweight champion Nick Ball, who also remains unbeaten as a professional and is known to pack a serious punch.
