Quick Read
- Naoya Inoue will defend his undisputed super bantamweight titles against Alan Picasso in Riyadh on December 27, 2025.
- Inoue named his top four pound-for-pound fighters: himself, Terence Crawford, Oleksandr Usyk, and Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez.
- Inoue’s choices reflect the new era of boxing, emphasizing cross-division dominance and respect for competitors.
Naoya Inoue Prepares for Picasso Showdown: What’s at Stake?
On December 27, 2025, all eyes will be on Riyadh as Naoya ‘The Monster’ Inoue steps into the ring to defend his undisputed super bantamweight championship against Mexico’s Alan Picasso. Inoue’s reputation as one of boxing’s most technically gifted and fearsome punchers precedes him, but this bout is more than another title defense—it’s another chapter in the story of a fighter who’s changed the landscape of the sport.
Inoue’s path to the top has been defined by breathtaking skill, unflinching discipline, and a willingness to face the best. As the headliner for Main Event’s blockbuster night, Inoue’s fight has already drawn anticipation from fans eager to witness greatness in motion. The Japanese superstar’s dominance has been so complete that each of his fights now carries an air of inevitability, yet also the hope that someone, someday, might push him to his limits.
The Monster’s Pound-for-Pound Picks: Who Makes Inoue’s Elite List?
In the build-up to his clash with Picasso, Inoue took a moment to reflect on the current state of boxing’s elite. Speaking with DAZN Boxing, Inoue revealed his personal Mount Rushmore of pound-for-pound fighters—a list that not only included himself, but also three other world-class talents who have transcended divisions and expectations.
- Terence Crawford – The American’s meteoric rise to three-division undisputed champion status, capped by his points victory over Canelo Alvarez, cemented his place among the sport’s immortals. Crawford’s ability to adapt, dominate, and unify titles at 140lbs, 147lbs, and now super-middleweight is a testament to his rare versatility and ambition.
- Oleksandr Usyk – With achievements spanning both cruiserweight and heavyweight, Usyk’s technical mastery and relentless work ethic have left little doubt about his pound-for-pound credentials. His victories over the likes of Anthony Joshua have resonated across the boxing world, proving that size is no barrier to skill.
- Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez – The youngest on Inoue’s list, Rodriguez’s explosive rise and championship pedigree have earned him recognition from his peers. Rodriguez’s blend of speed, power, and ring IQ make him a threat in any weight class.
- Naoya Inoue – Inoue himself, the architect of his own legend, rounds out the list. His humility in including himself speaks to a self-awareness rare among champions—he recognizes his accomplishments, but also the relentless pursuit required to stay on top.
Inoue’s choices highlight a changing of the guard in boxing, where talent, adaptability, and cross-division dominance are prized above mere longevity. The debate over the fourth spot—between Dmitry Bivol and Rodriguez—shows just how competitive and subjective the pound-for-pound conversation has become.
Why Inoue’s Legacy Resonates Beyond the Ring
What makes Inoue’s perspective so compelling is the context of his career. From his emergence as a prodigy in Japan to his current status as a global icon, Inoue has always emphasized respect for the sport and its history. His willingness to name his rivals as peers, rather than simply competitors, reflects a maturity often missing in the boxing world.
Inoue’s legacy is not only built on knockouts and titles, but also on his approach to competition. He’s never shied away from fighting the best, and his choices for pound-for-pound greatness mirror his own journey—a relentless climb against increasingly difficult odds. That authenticity, combined with an almost surgical precision in the ring, has inspired a new generation of fighters and fans alike.
What’s Next for Boxing’s Best—and for Inoue?
As Inoue prepares to face Alan Picasso, the question on everyone’s mind is whether ‘The Monster’ can continue his reign. Picasso, hungry and untested at this level, represents the kind of challenge that keeps champions sharp. But for Inoue, the fight is also an opportunity to further cement his place among the greats he admires.
The sport itself is at a crossroads. With emerging stars and established names sharing the spotlight, the pound-for-pound debate will only intensify. Inoue’s role as both champion and tastemaker ensures that his voice will be heard, long after the final bell rings in Riyadh.
For fans and fighters alike, Inoue’s story is a reminder: greatness is not simply about winning, but about pushing boundaries—both personal and professional—and honoring the craft that binds them all together.
Inoue’s pound-for-pound picks reveal a champion who respects his peers and understands the shifting dynamics of the sport. By including himself alongside Crawford, Usyk, and Rodriguez, Inoue underscores not only his achievements, but also the importance of continual growth and recognition. In 2025, as boxing’s landscape evolves, it’s this blend of humility and ambition that keeps Inoue at the center of every conversation about greatness.
Sources: Boxing News Online, DAZN Boxing, Fox Sports Australia