Naoya Inoue will fight TJ Doheny in Tokyo today, defending his undisputed super-bantamweight titles against the Irishman.
Inoue is arguably the No 1 pound-for-pound boxer in the world, with an undefeated record and a stunning knockout rate. The Japanese, 31, has eased through most of his fights so far, becoming a two-weight undisputed champion in the process – and having held titles in four divisions overall.
Last time out, however, he faced the most adversity he has ever encountered, when he was knocked down by Luis Nery in round one in May. The “Monster” rallied impressively, though, dropping Nery in rounds two, five and six, with the final knockdown finishing the fight.
Next up for Inoue is Doheny, a veteran southpaw who travels to Inoue’s backyard in search of an upset. The 37-year-old enters Tokyo with a professional record of 26-4 (20 knockouts), while Inoue is 27-0 (24 KOs).
Follow live updates and results from Inoue vs Doheny and the undercard, below.
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE: Japanese star, pound-for-pound No 1?
As Steve mentioned in the last post, Inoue may be the best boxer in the world, but where does he rank on the Indy Sport pound-for-pound list?
Spoiler alert, you may have to scroll down some way…
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:52
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE: Steve Bunce fight preview
“He won his first world title 10 years ago, has added world titles at three different weights, and has stopped or knocked out 24 of the 27 men he has met in professional fights.
“This morning in Japan, Inoue will have his 23rd world title fight when he defends his super-bantamweight titles against the tough Irish-Australian, TJ Doheny. It will be over by about round six.”
Read Steve Bunce’s fight preview in full, right here:
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:42
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE
After Sasaki and Shimomachi’s victories, next up is the super-lightweight clash between Ismael Barroso and Andy Hiraoka.
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:40
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE: Fight card
Naoya Inoue (C) vs TJ Doheny (WBA, WBC, WBO and IBF super-bantamweight titles)
Yoshiki Takei vs Daigo Higa (WBO bantamweight title)
Ismael Barroso vs Andy Hiraoka (super-lightweight)
Jin Sasaki def. Qamil Balla via seventh-round TKO
Toshiki Shimomachi def. Ryuya Tsugawa via unanimous decision
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:32
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE
In the ring in Tokyo, Jin Sasaki has just stopped Qamil Balla in round seven!
A leaping left hook was the decisive punch amid an impressive barrage.
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:16
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE: How to watch the fight
In the UK, the event will air live on Sky Sports. In the US, ESPN+ will stream the fights.
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:15
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE: Start time and ring walks
Inoue vs Doheny will take place at the Ariaka Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:10
Inoue vs Doheny LIVE: Welcome!
Next up for Inoue is Doheny, a veteran southpaw who travels to Inoue’s backyard in search of an upset. The 37-year-old enters Tokyo with a professional record of 26-4 (20 knockouts), while Inoue is 27-0 (24 KOs).
Alex Pattle3 September 2024 09:00