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before from that same side where his right hand dips. When hurt, he tends to get overly aggressive, which could open him up again. Nakatani must stay composed during those moments and not get drawn into exchanges. Ultimately, Inoue’s experience and power at this weight can’t be understated. I see both hitting the canvas, but Inoue’s poise, ring IQ and experience ultimately earn him a unanimous decision. Bigger threat: Rafael Espinoza!! Alex Villagran Every Hall of Fame fighter has that one bout that cements their legacy – from Ali vs. Frazier
Jeddad Knows Age Every Moment Matters Here Jeddah is Different
INOUE VS. NAKATANI We asked readers to look beyond Ring V and offer their thoughts on a potential Naoya Inoue vs. Junto Nakatani matchup: Naoya Inoue vs. Junto Nakatani is the best fight to be made in boxing, at least from an avid boxing fan’s perspective. These two have been on a collision course for years – first rumors, then speculation and now open discussion from both camps and both fighters. As for how it plays out, well, as indestructible as Naoya Inoue is, I believe Junto Nakatani is the sole fighter in this world to have what it takes to beat Inoue, and I think he will beat him. Nakatani is, to me, the perfect mix of power, precision, movement, counterattacking and defensive responsibility. Having been in the gym with Junto, watching him train for many years, interviewing him and being around him and his camp, there’s something unique about Junto. From the first day
I met him and watched him train, he reminded me of an old-school fighter, a fighter that makes boxing look effortless with a calm, tactical and composed demeanor, that not only has raw boxing gifts but the heart and mind of a true champion. The timing is perfect for this fight as well. Junto is at the right moment in his career; he’s had the decisive wins and unforgettable KOs; he has the reputable names on his resume and the accolades at such a young age to back it up. Junto deserves this fight, and Inoue deserves to give it to him. This fight is a win for both men. Whatever happens in this fight, I expect a war. I expect a fight that will go down in history as one of the all-time great fights, and I plan on being there in Japan when it happens. Sebastian Milo, The Boxing Mob Nakatani definitely has the tools to trouble Inoue. His length and southpaw stance will pose real problems. Inoue’s been dropped
to Floyd vs. Pacquiao. But we still haven’t seen that from Inoue. He will get his chance against Nakatani in what could be Japan’s biggest fight ever. Leon Barchue
I think that Nakatani will be a problem for Inoue because of Nakatani’s long-range shot
selections, southpaw stance, power and ring IQ. Inoue is also known to have an opening to his chin with a left hook in the southpaw vs. orthodox position. Can Nakatani outbox Inoue all 12 rounds, or can Inoue get inside and land his shots? I think it will be a true 50/50 fight. Gie-Jay Paguio Naoya Inoue’s fundamentals are stupendous. His ability to make the basics look like art is truly a step above the rest in today’s era. Then we’ve got Junto Nakatani, a long- range sniper with dynamite in his left hand. He brings the dangerous
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