Naoya Inoue vs Junto Nakatani Confirmed for May 2 Tokyo Dome

Inoue has controlled the 122-pound division since moving up in 2023, while Nakatani arrives unbeaten after moving through several weight classes during his career.

The Tokyo Dome venue places the event among the largest boxing shows staged in Japan. Inoue has already established himself as one of the country’s most accomplished champions, winning undisputed titles in two divisions during a career built on decisive victories. His recent fights have drawn large crowds and significant television audiences in Japan.

Nakatani previously held titles at lower weights and moved upward while maintaining an unbeaten record. His height, southpaw stance, and accuracy have made him a difficult opponent in the lighter divisions. The fight places two of Japan’s leading fighters in the same ring, something that has not always happened quickly in a sport where domestic matchups between top champions can take years to arrange.

The press conference also confirmed a second world title fight for the card. WBC bantamweight champion Takuma Inoue will defend his belt against veteran champion Kazuto Ioka.

Ioka enters the bout pursuing a milestone in Japanese boxing. The 37-year-old has won titles in four divisions during a career that began in 2009, and a victory over Takuma Inoue would make him the first Japanese male boxer to capture championships in five weight classes.

Both fights place several of Japan’s most recognized fighters on the same event. The card is expected to draw strong interest domestically, where Inoue and Nakatani have built large followings through repeated world title performances.