Murodjon Akhmadaliev Targeting a Fight With Naoya Inoue
Naoya “Monster” Inoue (26-0, 23 KOs) sits firmly at the top of the mountain in the junior featherweight division. There’s a plethora of fighters at 122 pounds who would love to get their crack at him. One is one-time unified junior featherweight champion Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev (12-1, 9 KOs).
WANTING HIS SHOT
Inoue was the center of the boxing world on December 26 in Tokyo, Japan, as he stopped Marlon Tapales in ten rounds to become the undisputed champion at 122. Among those in attendance to witness the contest was Akhmadaliev. After that match, MJ posted the following message to Inoue on social media:
It’s the second time in recent weeks that Akhmadaliev has expressed a desire to face Monster. Following a sixth-round stoppage over Kevin Gonzalez on December 16, MJ let it known he wants to go to battle with Inoue.
Many observers feel that the undisputed champion is nearly unbeatable. But if there is a fighter who stands a chance to topple him, it’s Akhmadaliev. The southpaw from Uzbekistan has fast hands, excellent footwork, and power in both hands. He’s well-schooled and fundamentally sound.
At his best, MJ uses his jab and quick feet to set fighters up, then score with combinations up and downstairs before darting out of the way. He has the skills and offensive arsenal that could give Inoue quite a test.
IN THE RUNNING?
It’s one thing to opine about a potential showdown between Inoue and Akhmadaliev. But what is the likelihood of it happening? After his win over Tapales, the junior featherweight champion said he expects to return to the ring in May 2024.
The fact that MJ was ringside for Inoue versus Tapales speaks volumes. Akhmadaliev could be in contention to be Inoue’s next opponent. It’s a fight that the Uzbeki fighter would take without batting an eye.
