The disclosure of Inoue’s upcoming undefeated title defense has unveiled specifics on the opponent and date
In a highly anticipated matchup, the undisputed world champion in two weight categories, Naoya Inoue from Japan, is set to defend his title in the super bantamweight division against the Mexican contender, Luis Nery. The fight is scheduled for May 2024 in Japan, with both parties agreeing to the terms.
Notably, Luis Nery faced a setback in 2018 when he received a lifetime ban from boxing in Japan for using the prohibited substance zilpaterol during his preparations for bouts against Shinsuke Yamanaka. However, Nery’s disqualification is expected to be overturned, allowing him to participate in the upcoming fight.
Inoue’s stellar performance in 2023 earned him recognition as the best boxer of the year by The Ring. In December of that year, he secured the undisputed champion title in the super bantamweight division by knocking out Filipino boxer Marlon Tapales. This victory marked Inoue as the second boxer in history to simultaneously hold undisputed titles in two weight classes, having become the bantamweight champion in 2022.
Nery earned his mandatory challenger status for the WBC belt in the super bantamweight division by knocking out Azat Hovhannisyan in the 11th round of their February 2023 bout. The upcoming clash between Inoue and Nery promises to be thrilling, drawing attention from boxing enthusiasts worldwide.