Marlon Tapales Eyes Inoue adn Nakatani After Upcoming Fight, Considers Featherweight Move
Marlon Tapales, the reigning junior bantamweight champion, is focused on his upcoming fight on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024, against Murodjon Akhmadaliev, while already looking ahead to potential future challenges, including a possible move up to featherweight and fights against top contenders like Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani. Tapales believes his upcoming bout is “only good for the sport of boxing” and is excited to be a part of it.
Third Title Defense and Future Ambitions
This Saturday’s fight marks Tapales’ third title defense at junior bantamweight (118 pounds). He previously unified the world titles at flyweight (112 pounds), demonstrating his ability to compete across multiple weight classes. Tapales is now contemplating a move to featherweight (126 pounds) and has identified Japanese stars Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani as potential opponents.
Considering a Jump to Featherweight
“We have talked about 126 pounds, that would be the maximum, I’m not sure I can go above that, only time will tell, but I think I will end up my career at 126,” tapales told ESPN.This suggests a strategic plan to extend his career and possibly secure more significant fights. Moving to featherweight would present new challenges,but Tapales believes it’s a viable option.
Analyzing Potential Opponents: Inoue and Nakatani
Tapales offered his assessment of a potential matchup between Inoue and Nakatani, who are scheduled to fight on december 15th, 2023. https://www.ringtv.com/2023/11/21/2484141/naoya-inoue-junto-nakatani-fight-date-venue-tv-stream-info/
“I think those fights versus Inoue, Nakatani do happen down the line,” he stated. “Inoue vs. Nakatani, when it happens, is a great fight and whoever lands first will be the winner of that one.” this highlights Tapales’ understanding of the dynamic nature of boxing and the importance of timing and precision.
Desire to Fight in Japan
Tapales also expressed his enthusiasm for fighting in Japan, a country where he has a growing fanbase. “I would love to fight in Japan one day. Every time I go there I enjoy it and I know I have some fans there.” Fighting in Japan would not only be a career highlight but also a chance to connect with his international supporters.
Key takeaways:
* Marlon Tapales is preparing for his third junior bantamweight title defense against Murodjon Akhmadaliev on November 23rd, 2024.
* He is considering a move to the featherweight division (126 pounds) for future fights.
* Tapales has identified Naoya inoue and Junto Nakatani as potential opponents.
* He hopes to fight in Japan, where he has a dedicated fanbase.
Tapales’ focus remains on his immediate challenge, but his ambition and strategic thinking position him for continued success in the boxing world. His potential move to featherweight and pursuit of fights against top-ranked opponents like Inoue and Nakatani suggest a determined effort to solidify his legacy as one of the sport’s leading fighters.