Naoya Inoue to Face Alan David Picasso in December: Setting the Stage for a 2026 Blockbuster with Junto Nakatani
Naoya Inoue, the undisputed junior featherweight champion, is already planning his next move. Just days after a dominant victory over Murodjon Akhmadaliev, Inoue has scheduled a December 27th bout against Mexico’s Alan David Picasso. This fight, taking place at the Mohammed Abdo Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is part of a stacked card dubbed “The Ring V: Night of the Samurai.”
The co-main event promises fireworks as Junto Nakatani defends his WBC and IBF bantamweight titles against Sebastian Hernandez. A prosperous night for both inoue and Nakatani all but guarantees a highly anticipated showdown between the two Japanese stars in 2026.
Inoue’s Remarkable 2025 Run
this fight marks Inoue’s fourth of the year, a pace unseen sence his early professional days in 2013. You’re witnessing a champion in peak form, actively seeking challenges and solidifying his legacy. His 2025 victories include:
* Ki Ye-Joon: A decisive win to kick off the year.
* Ramon Cardenas: Another successful defense of his titles.
* Murodjon Akhmadaliev: A wide unanimous decision victory,showcasing Inoue’s skill and dominance.
Now, he looks to add Alan David Picasso (32-0-1, 17 KOs) to his impressive list of conquered opponents. Picasso last fought in July,securing a majority decision win over Kyonosuke Kameda in a ten-round contest.
Nakatani’s Path to a Potential Inoue Clash
Junto Nakatani (31-0,24 KOs) has also been busy in 2025,securing impressive stoppage victories over Ryosuke Nishida and David Cuellar Contreras. He’s been vocal about his desire to face Inoue, and a win against Sebastian Hernandez (20-0, 18 KOs) will bring that dream closer to reality.
Nakatani’s aggressive style and knockout power make him a perilous opponent for anyone in the bantamweight division. Hernandez, with his own undefeated record and impressive finishing rate, represents a significant hurdle.
Why This Card Matters: The Future of Japanese Boxing
This event isn’t just about individual fights; it’s about the rising prominence of Japanese boxing on the global stage. Inoue and Nakatani represent the pinnacle of talent from Japan, and their potential clash is generating significant buzz among fans and analysts alike.
The “Night of the Samurai” card is strategically positioned to capitalize on this momentum, offering a compelling showcase of Japanese skill and athleticism. It’s a clear indication of the growing investment in boxing within the region and a signal of exciting things to come.
Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of Inoue’s Career
Naoya Inoue’s career is a masterclass in strategic development and relentless pursuit of excellence. From his early days as a super flyweight to his current reign as undisputed junior featherweight champion, Inoue has consistently adapted and improved.
His ability to seamlessly transition between weight classes, coupled with his exceptional boxing IQ and knockout power, sets him apart from his peers. You’ll notice a pattern throughout his career: a calculated approach to opponent selection, a commitment to rigorous training, and an unwavering focus on achieving his goals. This isn’t just about winning fights; it’s about building a legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Naoya Inoue and the Upcoming Fights
1.What is Naoya Inoue’s current record?
Naoya Inoue boasts an impressive professional record of 31 wins with 27 knockouts and zero losses.
2. Who is Alan David Picasso, and what are his strengths?
Alan David Picasso is a mexican boxer with a record of 32 wins, 1 draw, and 17 knockouts. He’s known for his durability and tactical approach to fighting.
3. When and where is the “Night of the Samurai” event taking place?
The event will be held on December 27th at the Mohammed abdo Arena in Riyadh,Saudi Arabia.
**4. What is the importance of the Junto nakatani vs. Sebastian
