Naoya Inoue accepts John Riel Casimero’s challenge!
John Reil Casimero (29-4, 20KO) scored one of the biggest upsets of the year when on November 30th, he stopped Zolani Tete (28-4, 21KO) in three rounds to win the WBO World Bantamweight champion.
Following his win, Casimero immediately called for a bout against unified bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (19-0, 16KO).
The Japanese champ took went to social media to respond, tweeting that he’s interested in with a Casimero.
While in attendance during Dec. 2 boxing card at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo to watch his cousin Koki score a seventh-round stoppage over Jheritz Chavez to win the WBO Asia-Pacific super lightweight title, Naoya and his co-promoter Hideyuki Ohashi spoke to the local media.
The Japanese superstar made intentions very clear who he has his sights set on. Having signed a co-promotional deal with Top Rank the he stated:
“I told the President (of Top Rank) to do it. The fight I want to do now is Casimero.”
Naoya is the “it” fighter of the lower-weight divisions and one of the hot names in boxing right now. If you are a prominent fighter in or around 118-pounds, a fight against him means not only notoriety but a significant payday.
The 26-year-old knows he is a wanted man. However, his response to Casimero is a sign that he is not running away from any challenge.
Given the deal with Top Rank as well as his desire to prove and show his greatness, it’s going to be fun watching what heights the man known as “Monster” can reach.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
