Is Naoya Inoue Obligated to Fight in America? A Look at the Controversy

Naoya Inoue: Does the Pound-for-Pound Star Need to Fight in America?

For over a decade, Naoya Inoue has been dominating the boxing world, conquering four weight divisions and holding an unblemished record of 26-0 with 23 knockouts. Despite his impressive resume, some critics argue that for Inoue to truly solidify his status as a boxing star, he must showcase his skills on U.S. soil.

Former welterweight champion Shawn Porter recently stated that if Inoue wants to be a star in boxing, he needs to come to the United States. However, the Japanese sensation had a different perspective, asserting that Japan is now the home of the lightweight division and inviting critics to witness his matches there.

Contrary to popular belief, Inoue has already fought outside of Japan, with appearances in the U.S. and the U.K. In 2017, he defended his WBO crown in California and later secured victories in Las Vegas and Scotland. Despite his global success, Inoue continues to thrive in his home country, with a reported net worth of $7 million and lucrative purses for his fights.

While the U.S. remains a significant market in boxing, Inoue’s success in Japan and other countries proves that he doesn’t necessarily need to fight in America to solidify his legacy. With the rise of boxing hotbeds like Japan and the U.K., as well as international locations like Saudi Arabia hosting major matchups, Inoue’s decision to stay true to his roots is a testament to his confidence and success as a pound-for-pound superstar.

In conclusion, Naoya Inoue’s dominance in the sport speaks for itself, and he is under no obligation to conform to traditional standards of fighting in America. As one of the best fighters in the world, Inoue’s legacy is secure, regardless of where he chooses to showcase his talents.