Unified WBC and IBF bantamweight champion Junto Nakatani has officially vacated his world titles, confirming his move up to the super-bantamweight division in pursuit of a blockbuster showdown with fellow Japanese superstar Naoya Inoue.
Nakatani (31-0, 24 KOs) has enjoyed a remarkable run at 118lbs, winning the WBC title in his debut at the weight by stopping Alexandro Santiago, and then defending it three times in dominant fashion. Knockout wins over Vincent Astrolabio, Tasana Salapat, and David Cuellar Contreras solidified his status as one of the division’s elite.
In June 2025, the 27-year-old southpaw added the IBF title to his collection by stopping Ryosuke Nishida, becoming a unified champion and extending his KO streak to five.
Despite his growing dominance, speculation had long suggested that Nakatani wouldn’t remain at bantamweight for much longer—especially with whispers of a historic clash against Inoue (31-0, 27 KOs) growing louder throughout 2025. Now, that superfight appears closer than ever.
Related News
Nakatani Sets His Sights on Inoue
Speaking at a press conference yesterday—covered by Sanspo—Nakatani made his intentions clear. “That [Inoue fight in May] is what I should aim for. I have no choice but to ask myself what I need to do to achieve that and continue to grow.”
The plan now appears to be a joint appearance for both fighters on a major December 27 card in Riyadh, followed by a headlining collision in May 2026, provided both emerge victorious in their respective bouts.
The Stage Is Set for December
Promoters officially confirmed today that Naoya Inoue will face unbeaten Mexican Alan David Picasso Romero (32-0-1, 17 KOs) in the main event of the Riyadh card, which will take place during the festive season.
In the co-main event, Nakatani will make his super-bantamweight debut against another undefeated Mexican puncher, Sebastian Hernandez Reyes (20-0, 18 KOs). At just 24 years old, Reyes brings power and momentum to the ring—an ideal test for Nakatani at his new weight.
The event is shaping up as a must-watch occasion, not only for its individual matchups, but also for what it could set in motion: a showdown between two unbeaten Japanese champions, both with world titles in four weight classes between them, and each aiming to become the undisputed face of the lower divisions.
