Naoya Inoue And The Difference Of The Japanese Boxing Style.

The upcoming bout between Japan’s Naoya “The Monster” Inoue and Ireland’s T.J. “The Power” Doheny promises to be a thrilling encounter between two seasoned fighters with contrasting styles. Inoue, the reigning WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion, is known for his devastating power and relentless pressure. His undefeated record of 27-0, with 24 of those victories coming by way of knockout, has made him one of the most feared boxers in the world today. Meanwhile, Doheny, ranked No. 7 by the WBC, brings a wealth of experience into the ring with a record of 26-4, including 20 knockouts.

Inoue, a four-division world champion, has consistently showcased his ability to dominate opponents across different weight classes. His most recent victory over Stephen Fulton to capture the WBC and WBO super bantamweight titles further solidified his reputation as a top pound-for-pound fighter. Inoue’s fighting style is a blend of calculated aggression and technical precision, making him a formidable opponent for anyone who steps into the ring with him.

On the other hand, Doheny, a seasoned southpaw, is known for his resilience and punching power. Standing at 5’6” with a 66” reach, he may not have the same physical advantages as Inoue, but his experience and determination make him a dangerous adversary. Doheny’s ability to absorb punishment and deliver heavy blows in return has earned him a reputation as a tough competitor in the super bantamweight division.

This fight is expected to be a classic clash of styles, with Inoue’s relentless aggression pitted against Doheny’s counter-punching ability. Inoue’s strategy will likely revolve around applying constant pressure, looking to break down Doheny’s defenses with his signature body shots and unorthodox combinations. Doheny, on the other hand, will aim to use his southpaw stance to create angles and capitalize on any openings that Inoue might leave as he presses forward.

Naoya Inoue’s fighting style is a reflection of his dedication to the craft and the influence of traditional Japanese boxing. Unlike many fighters who focus primarily on head-hunting, Inoue places a significant emphasis on body shots, a technique that has somewhat become a lost art in modern boxing. His left uppercut to the solar plexus and hook to the liver are particularly lethal, often leading to early stoppages as his opponents crumple under the pressure.

Inoue’s ability to throw powerful combinations from both his left and right hand makes him unpredictable in the ring. His right straight, in particular, is a devastating weapon, delivered with precision and speed that few can match. This unpredictability, combined with his relentless forward movement, overwhelms opponents and forces them into defensive shells, where they struggle to mount any significant offense.

The essence of Japanese boxing is deeply rooted in discipline, technique, and respect for the sport. Fighters like Inoue embody the style of an karateka and the modern pugilist, with a in and out and solid stance with accuracy and precision. Inoue’s unbridled power, honed through countless hours of training, is a testament to his commitment to excellence. Even when using gloves like Winning, known for their extra padding, Inoue’s punches carry a force that few can withstand.

However, like all fighters, Inoue is human. His bout with Nonito Donaire in 2019 exposed a vulnerability when he was staggered by a left hook. Yet, Inoue’s ability to recover and continue fighting is a testament to his resilience and mental toughness. As he prepares to face Doheny, Inoue will need to draw on all these attributes to maintain his undefeated record and continue his reign as one of the best boxers in the world.