Soon to arrive on American soil is Japan’s Naoya Inoue. The 5-foot-5 pugilist with pop star looks is proof that great things can come in small packages.
What’s special about Inoue, other than his undefeated record and masterful boxing ability, is the country that he represents. Japan, a country renowned for its legendary samurai warriors, has produced many talented fighters and has shown, despite its polite and respectful nature, an immense passion for combat sports as a whole. However, arguably none of Japan’s former stars have Inoue’s ability to transcend language.
To become a global star, speaking English is a necessity—but when it comes to Inoue, things could be different. Being a warrior from Japan who delivers the violent finishes fans desire while remaining emotionless provides an authentic character, an embodiment of Japan’s legendary samurai of old.
When the foreign warrior makes his USA debut, targeted for June 14th, and puts some of the sport’s biggest names on notice, Japan’s top warrior will have global conquest in his sights.
Forever Fighting 