A big plan is in place to match Naoya Inoue against Jesse Rodriguez as the centerpiece of a “Riyadh Season” event in Japan next February, with Nagoya’s IG Arena identified as the likely venue.
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The proposed fight, if completed, could carry an estimated purse of around ¥5 billion (about $30–35 million), positioning it as one of the biggest financial events ever for fighters in the lower weight divisions. Saudi official Turki Alalshikh attended Inoue’s recent victory over Junto Nakatani, where the undisputed champion took a unanimous decision to extend his run at the top of the sport.
The event is part of a larger effort by Saudi Arabia to expand the “Riyadh Season” beyond its traditional base. Cards have already been staged in the United States, including Las Vegas, and discussions surrounding a Japan show indicate a further move into established boxing markets. Inoue was central to those plans, having previously appeared at Saudi-backed events and drawn strong local crowds.
Inoue also pointed to one remaining big fight at super bantamweight before moving up in weight. Speaking recently, he said:
“I think featherweight will be my last challenge. At super bantamweight, I probably have Nakatani and maybe one more fight left,” Inoue said.
Although no opponent has been named, Rodriguez has consistently been considered the top option. Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed that early discussions had already taken place and described the bout as one that would be difficult to avoid given both fighters’ positions.
Rodriguez is expected to continue to build his position ahead of a potential clash, including pursuing additional titles at lower weights before moving up. That route would allow him to enter a fight with Inoue and achieve further feats across multiple divisions.
Inoue, meanwhile, said after the Nakatani fight that his immediate future is undecided and that he plans to take a break after a busy stretch. Even so, the magnitude of the proposed event and Saudi support clearly puts the Rodriguez fight ahead of negotiations.
If completed, the bout is expected to serve as Inoue’s final appearance at 122 pounds before a move to featherweight in pursuit of a fifth division title.
Last updated on 2026/05/02 at 21:48
