Naoya ‘The Monster’ Inoue Dominates David Picasso in Riyadh Title Defense
By Sports Desk | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
In a display of sheer dominance, Japan’s Naoya “The Monster” Inoue cruised to a unanimous decision victory over Mexico’s David Picasso, retaining his undisputed super bantamweight championship in Riyadh on Saturday night.
Inoue, now 32-0 with 27 knockouts, extended his flawless professional record with a masterful performance against the tough Mexican contender, who fell to 32-1-1, 17 KOs. The four-division world champion showcased his technical prowess and ring generalship over 12 rounds, outboxing Picasso in a fight that never quite reached the explosive knockout finish many anticipated from “The Monster.”[1]
A Calculated Masterclass
The bout, held under the bright lights of Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, pitted the pound-for-pound king against a durable challenger known for his resilience. Picasso entered the ring with hopes of pulling off an upset, but Inoue dictated the pace from the opening bell. Jabbing effectively and using his superior footwork, Inoue kept Picasso at bay, landing crisp combinations while avoiding unnecessary exchanges.
Judges scored the fight 120-108, 119-109, and 118-110 in favor of Inoue, reflecting his control throughout. While Picasso showed heart, absorbing heavy shots and pressing forward in spurts, he couldn’t find the power or volume to trouble the Japanese star. Inoue’s defense was impeccable, slipping punches and countering with precision that left the Mexican fighter frustrated.[1]
“Inoue’s performance was a clinic in super bantamweight mastery,” noted ringside analysts. “Picasso hung tough, but ‘The Monster’ was simply levels above.”
Inoue’s Road to Riyadh
This victory marks Inoue’s third defense of his undisputed super bantamweight titles (WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO), a division he’s cleared out with ruthless efficiency since moving up in weight. The 31-year-old phenom, already a two-division undisputed champion prior to this reign, has now defended his belts against top contenders like Stephen Fulton, Marlon Tapales, and TJ Doheny.
Picasso, a former world title challenger, brought a 32-1-1 record into the fight and was riding a wave of domestic success in Mexico. However, facing Inoue proved too steep a task. The Mexican’s aggression in the middle rounds offered brief moments of excitement, but Inoue’s ring IQ shone through, adjusting seamlessly to maintain distance and pick his shots.
| Fighter | Record After Fight | Knockouts | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naoya Inoue | 32-0 | 27 | Unanimous Decision Win |
| David Picasso | 32-1-1 | 17 | Loss |
What’s Next for ‘The Monster’?
Post-fight, Inoue hinted at big plans ahead. “I’m ready for whoever is next,” he stated through his interpreter, eyes already on potential unification bouts or a move to featherweight. Promoters are buzzing about matchups with names like Murodjon Akhmadaliev or even a superfight with featherweight stars.
The Riyadh card, part of Saudi Arabia’s growing boxing powerhouse events, also featured undercard action that thrilled the international crowd. Inoue’s comfort in the Middle Eastern hotspot continues, following previous triumphs there against Fulton and Tapales.
Picasso’s Grit Earns Respect
Despite the loss, Picasso departed with his head high. The 28-year-old Mexican warrior went the distance with one of boxing’s best, a feat few achieve. “Inoue is a monster,” Picasso admitted. “I gave everything, but he’s special.” His performance likely positions him for future title opportunities in the stacked 122-pound division.
Inoue’s win solidifies his status as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world. With 28 world title fights under his belt across four weight classes, the Japanese icon shows no signs of slowing down. Boxing fans worldwide await his next move in what promises to be another blockbuster year for “The Monster.”
Key Moments:
- Inoue’s sharp jab controlled Rounds 1-4.
- Picasso’s body work sparked Rounds 5-7.
- The champion’s uppercuts sealed Rounds 9-12.