Naoya Inoue Nearing Fight with TJ Doheny Over Akhmadaliev
Undisputed junior featherweight champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue (27-0, 24 KOs) is one of the elite fighters in the sport. A four-division world champion, the superstar from Japan has universal respect across the boxing world. But is the Monster ducking a fight with Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev (12-1, 9 KOs)?
3kingsboxing.com has learned that Inoue is close to finalizing a deal to defend against one-time IBF 122-pound belt holder TJ Doheny (26-4, 20 KOs) in September in Tokyo, Japan. Doheny is coming off a fourth-round stoppage win over Bryl Bayogos on the undercard of Inoue’s sixth-round stoppage over Luis Nery in May 2024.
BACKLASH AGAINST THE MONSTER
News of Inoue versus Doheny has drawn criticism from the boxing community. While Doheny has held a world title, he’s also 37 years old, and on the downslide of his career. It’s a battle that will not generate buzz, even in Inoue’s home country of Japan. Boxing enthusiasts on social media have argued that the next opponent for the Monster should be Akhmadaliev.
MJ, a former unified champion, is currently the WBA mandatory challenger. In June 2024, the organization ordered a fight between him and Inoue. Of the current fighters at junior featherweight, plenty of experts view MJ as the biggest threat to Inoue’s title reign.
Throughout his career, the gifted fighter from Japan has sought out and faced tough competition. However, the fact that Inoue and his handlers choose to fight Doheny instead of Akhmadaliev is disappointing, puzzling, and a sign that he may be ducking MJ.
This action will be viewed by fans as Team Inoue choosing the path of least resistance.
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