Inoue's decision not to fight Akhmadaliev is based on several compelling factors. Firstly, he lost to Marlon Tapales, a setback that has led him to question the urgency of taking on another challenger. Secondly, Akhmadaliev needs to maintain the value of his victories by facing tougher opponents. And thirdly, Inoue has already scheduled a fight against Sam Goodman, a highly regarded contender in his weight class.
Inoue's upcoming fight against Sam Goodman on January 24th at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, is a significant event. Originally set for December 24th, the bout was postponed due to an injury to Goodman during his last sparring session. This delay has only added to the anticipation surrounding the fight and Inoue's determination to prove his worth.
The fight against Ricardo Espinoza, a 27-year-old opponent brought in to showcase Akhmadaliev's prowess, did not fool Inoue. He saw through the tactics and was not willing to be pressured into a fight he did not believe in. Espinoza may not have been a top-tier opponent, but his presence served as a reminder of the importance of facing worthy adversaries.
Promoter Eddie Hearn's calls for Inoue to defend against Akhmadaliev have fallen on deaf ears. Inoue remains steadfast in his decision, stating that if Akhmadaliev wants a fight, he should wait and build on his own success. This standoff has sparked intense discussions among boxing fans and pundits alike.
With the Goodman fight on the horizon, Inoue is fully committed to showcasing his skills and defending his undisputed super bantamweight championship. He sees this as an opportunity to solidify his position in the boxing world and prove that he is a force to be reckoned with.
Naoya Inoue's decision to avoid a fight with Akhmadaliev is a complex one, driven by his past performance and future plans. As he prepares to face Goodman, the boxing community will be watching closely to see how he fares and whether he will ultimately change his stance on the Akhmadaliev fight.