Naoya Inoue vs Junto Nakatani confirmed for May 2 Tokyo Dome

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

The Tokyo Dome venue ranks the event among the biggest 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 decision victories. His recent fights have drawn large crowds and significant television audiences in Japan.

Nakatani previously held titles at lower weights and moved up while maintaining an undefeated record. His height, southpaw stance and accuracy made him a tough opponent in the lighter divisions. The fight puts two of Japan’s top fighters in the same ring, something that hasn’t always happened quickly in a sport where domestic matches 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 match chasing a milestone in Japanese boxing. The 37-year-old has won titles in four divisions during a career that began in 2009, and a win over Takuma Inoue would make him the first Japanese male boxer to win championships in five weight classes.

Both fights put several of Japan’s most recognized fighters on the same event. The card is expected to draw a lot of interest locally, where Inoue and Nakatani have built huge followings through repeated world title appearances.