Fight Preview
While Naoya Inoue has become Japan’s most prominent boxing figure on the international scene, Junto Nakatani is establishing himself as a notable contender. On Sunday, Nakatani will defend his WBC bantamweight title against IBF champion Ryosuke Nishida in Tokyo.
Nakatani’s Record
Junto Nakatani (30-0, 23 KO) has made impressive strides in his boxing career. He captured his first championship in 2020 by defeating Giemel Magramo for the WBO flyweight title, which he defended twice with knockouts, before moving up to junior bantamweight. His knockout of Jason Moloney marked his rise to the WBO title at 115 pounds.
Nakatani Weigh-In
He defended his junior bantamweight title before moving up again and secured the WBC bantamweight title with a knockout win over Alexandro Santiago in February 2024.
Nishida’s Background
Ryosuke Nishida (10-0, 2 KO) presents a significant challenge, hailing from a division dominated by Japanese fighters. Despite his limited number of professional fights, Nishida has notable victories, including a win against Shohei Omori and defeating former WBC champion Daigo Higa.
He clinched the IBF bantamweight title with a decision victory over Emmanuel Rodríguez in May 2024 and later defended it with a TKO against Anuchai Donsua.
Possible Future Fights
While Nishida poses a tough matchup, eyes are also on Nakatani potentially facing Inoue, a fellow knockout artist. Their meeting could take place at the Tokyo Dome in 2026 as hinted by Inoue during a recent event.
Fight Card & Odds
- Junto Nakatani (c) -1000 vs. Ryosuke Nishida (c) +550, unified bantamweight title
- Tenshin Nasukawa vs. Victor Santillan, bantamweights
- Van Thao Tran vs. Tomoya Tsuboi, bantamweights
- Riku Masuda vs. Michell Banquez, bantamweights
Viewing Information
Date: June 8 | Location: Ariake Colosseum, Tokyo Start time: 4 a.m. ET TV: ESPN | Stream: ESPN+
Prediction
Nakatani should not underestimate Nishida, who has shown skill. However, the lack of power from Nishida may become his disadvantage against the formidable Nakatani, who has proven to bully opponents and land heavy strikes. Nakatani is predicted to win via a TKO in round six.
