Inoue and Nakatani Arrive in Riyadh With Everything on the Line

Then got here the basic line: “There isn’t a likelihood my belts are going again with him to Mexico.” Historical past laughs at statements like that. Belts go house with whoever doesn’t hesitate within the pocket. Picasso might not have Inoue’s pedigree, however he’s received one thing tougher to purchase — complete delusion combined with perception. Generally that’s the deadliest cocktail in boxing.

Picasso’s Defiance or Delusion

Picasso gave his personal sermon: “It won’t be the Night time of the Samurai – it will be an Azteca night time.” A press release like that cuts each methods. Exhibits pleasure, certain — but additionally stress. He’s carrying a nation in his voice earlier than he’s even stepped in. And you’ll hear the child’s honesty when he provides: “I’ve run 1000’s of kilometres… I can’t let my individuals down.” That’s Mexican coronary heart. However coronary heart doesn’t win exchanges in opposition to a person like Inoue, who turns hesitation into punishment.

Nonetheless, Picasso can disrupt rhythm with output alone. If he survives early physique assaults and makes Inoue’s toes work additional time, the Japanese ace would possibly begin to look mortal for the primary time for the reason that Fulton combat.

Nakatani’s Quiet Gamble

Then there’s Junto Nakatani, sliding as much as Tremendous Bantamweight with virtually no noise. He mentioned, “I’ve been getting ready 100 per cent, so you will notice the very best of me.” That’s the well mannered code for getting into the unknown. At 118 and 122, he regarded dominant — lengthy arms, brief mood, calm killer vitality. At 126, physics begins to speak again. Sebastian Hernandez is aware of it too. His easy reply — “I’ve ready my greatest, so I’ll give my very best on this combat too.” — sounds humble, however there’s intent in it. He’s hoping Nakatani doesn’t carry his energy up.

Nakatani’s timing is glossy, however typically he wants a number of rounds to dial in that distance. Hernandez will attempt to make it messy earlier than he finds it. If Nakatani will get clipped early, it may flip ugly quick. One other thread of threat hidden beneath a sophisticated card.

Saudi backers name it “Night time of the Samurai,” however Saturday’s card appears extra like Night time of Analysis. Each Japanese fighter right here walks a knife edge — expectations excessive, vulnerabilities actual. Inoue may lose aura. Nakatani may lose momentum. Picasso and Hernandez? They got here to steal alternative.

Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025Start time: 6 PM ET / 11 PM UKStreaming platform: Reside on DAZNVenue: Mohammed Abdu Area, Boulevard Metropolis, Riyadh