Takuma Inoue Sets His Sights on Multiple Bantamweight Titles After Second Nasukawa Win

Takuma Inoue is eager to amass multiple bantamweight titles after securing a second victory over Tenshin Nasukawa on September 27. While his ambition is clear, the greater challenge lies in capturing a belt from a champion whose professional résumé rivals his own.

“I’m not satisfied with just this one belt. I want to collect more,” said Takuma.

Following his unanimous decision win in Tokyo, The Ring highlighted Inoue’s comment. The WBC champion remains undefeated at 23‑2, but his two decisions against Nasukawa reveal more about his capacity to neutralize a skilled convert than about his prospects against other elite contenders in the division.

Nasukawa’s knockout of Juan Francisco Estrada earned him another shot, yet it failed to bridge the gap in professional experience between the two fighters. Inoue managed the exchanges, but the bout did not prove whether he can suppress a seasoned bantamweight who continues to press after landing a counter.

Seiya Tsutsumi presents a particularly compelling test for Inoue. Tsutsumi previously downed Inoue by unanimous decision to claim the WBA belt in 2024. Although Tsutsumi is currently listed as WBA champion in recess and Antonio Vargas holds the organization’s title, a rematch would hinge on resolving the sanctioning body’s title status. Tsutsumi’s twelve‑round domination over Inoue underscores a level of competition that Nasukawa could not match.

IBF champion Jose Salas Reyes and WBO champion Christian Medina offer additional pathways to a second title. Medina’s stoppage of former WBO holder Yoshiki Takei makes him a more credible adversary to test whether Inoue’s measured, low‑output style can withstand a finisher. Meanwhile, Ryosuke Nishida has moved up to super bantamweight, and Takei no longer occupies the WBO bantamweight belt, rendering them moot as current unification opponents.

Inoue does not need to emulate his older brother Naoya’s explosive style to be an effective champion, but he must demonstrate that his approach succeeds against opponents beyond Nasukawa. Should he pursue additional belts, facing Medina or Salas Reyes would provide the ideal opportunity to prove his mettle.

Source link