Naoya Inoue Back in the Gym, Gives An Update on His Injured Right Eye
In the eyes of many, WBA/IBF World Bantamweight Champion Naoya Inoue (19-0, 16 KOs) 2019’s Fighter of the Year. Now as we start into 2020, the fighter known as “Monster” readying for an even more stellar year.
On January 6, the 26-year-old kicked off the year stepping back into the ring for a public workout at the Ohashi Gym in his hometown of Yokohama, Japan for the local press. Afterward, he gave a status on his left eye and his plans for the future. Inoue suffered a broken right orbital bone during his November 7, 2019 win over Nonito Donaire.
Accompanied by his younger brother Takuma, the two jumped rope, sparred, and worked on the mitts and heavy bag.
According to publication Asian Boxing, while Inoue said the eye is close to being fully healed there’s, still some reservations about the scar tissue that was present and quite visible during the workout.
“Almost completely healed. I do not know, since it is the first time, how much damage will open the wound again. I would like to ask those who have experienced it.”
Inoue further added that he plans to begin sparring at the end of January and go full bore into preparation for his next bout.
HEADING INTO 2020
As far as what’s upcoming, while no official opponent has been finalized, we do know the date he will next appear in the ring. Inoue will next fight on April 25 in the United States on ESPN/Top Rank. According to new co-promoter and Top Rank boss Bob Arum, he would like for Inoue’s debut bout with the company to be a unification bout at bantamweight.
Having expressed a strong desire to face WBO World Bantamweight champion John Reil Casimero (28-4, 21 KOs), Arum is looking towards him as a possibility, as well as WBC Champion Nordine Oubaali (17-0, 12 KOs).
It’s good to see Inoue recovering nicely from injury and already in preparation for his next outing in the ring. Stay tuned 3KingBoxing for further news as to who Inoue will fight next.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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