Boxing: Naoya Inoue vs Jamie McDonnell Preview

Naoya “The Monster” Inoue climbs up the ladder to meet WBA Regular belt holder Jamie McDonnell in his first crack at Bantamweight. This undefeated two-division champion will be taking a tall order in the biggest challenge of his phenomenal young career Saturday night in Tokyo. Let’s examine the particulars of this matchup. Inoue (15-0, 13 KOs) is a marvel widely considered amid the sport’s pound for pound best. A magnificent resume heartily supports that claim. Inoue captured a world championship in only his 6^th professional bout. Then skipped Flyweight altogether and scored another title at Superfly. ‘The Monster’ showing to be a dynamic puncher with surgical precision is both extremely quick and decidedly economical in movement. Coolly detached and laser locked, a modern day ninja possessing sublime ring skills. Now facing his most ambitious task just ahead.

McDonnell (29-2-1, 13 KOs) is an oversize load at 118 lbs. With a freakish height of 5’10 and high level boxing abilities. The 32-year-old Brit is more than just a measuring stick. Crafty as well as technically sound, plus exhibiting a nice work rate. Tricky with competent footwork and decent upper body movement along with being somewhat of a road warrior as illustrated by impressive repeat wins over elite ex-titlist Tomoki Kameda among others.

Besides a marked height differential, McDonnell’s 5.5 inch reach advantage certainly puts him in the pole position. While sacrificing nearly 7 years of age, it is fairly compensated by a considerable edge in experience. Each assuming the orthodox stance, a rare commonality. Live action featured on Sky Sports from Ota City General Gymnasium. Bear witness to history.