Inoue Defeats Cardenas – What’s Next in the Road to Murodjon Akhmadaliev?

[MuscleMadness]

Yo, what’s up, Warriors? Muscle Madness here—your heavy-lifting, muscle-packing, sweat-dripping brother on the grind. When it comes to boxing news, we break it down like seasoned fight veterans at the gym. Today, we’re diving into Naoya Inoue’s latest performance and what it means for his next steps, especially with Murodjon Akhmadaliev on the horizon.

Naoya Inoue did what Naoya Inoue always does—he dominated. But this time, he had to walk through fire to do it. Inoue retained the undisputed junior featherweight title after surviving a surprising knockdown and overwhelming Ramon Cardenas in front of a roaring crowd at Las Vegas on May 4, 2025.

Inoue vs. Cardenas: Fight Recap|

Cardenas entered as a clear underdog, but he made things interesting when he dropped Inoue late in round two with a well-timed left hook, marking only the second knockdown of Inoue’s career. That moment ignited the crowd and gave the fight an edge early on.

• Round 1: A feeling-out process, with both fighters looking sharp. Inoue controlled the distance while Cardenas landed a few solid jabs.
• Round 2: Cardenas landed the biggest shot of his career, a left hook that floored Inoue and bloodied his nose.
• Round 3: Cardenas carried his momentum into the round, but Inoue stayed calm and composed.
• Round 4: Inoue regained control with precision shots and began dictating the pace.
• Round 5: A back-and-forth exchange. Inoue led in body shots (16-9), slowly taking over.
• Round 6: Inoue unleashed a barrage, pinning Cardenas on the ropes. He landed 63% of his power punches to Cardenas' 37%.
• Round 7: Cardenas showed heart, but he was fading. Inoue landed clean, powerful shots that left Cardenas stumbling by the end of the round.
• Round 8: Just 45 seconds in, Inoue came out firing. The referee stopped the bout as Inoue overwhelmed Cardenas.

Inoue retained his title and immediately confirmed what’s next: “Next, September, MJ,” he said in the ring, referring to Murodjon Akhmadaliev.

Analysis of Inoue’s Performance​

It wasn’t a flawless performance from Inoue, but it might’ve been more valuable than a shutout. He got tested. He got knocked down. And he responded like a champion.

His shot selection, poise, and pressure were on full display after the knockdown. From rounds four through eight, he completely dismantled Cardenas. He showed once again why he’s not just a great puncher—he’s one of the smartest fighters in the game.

Reactions from the Boxing World​

Fans and analysts alike praised Inoue’s recovery and grit. After a chaotic weekend, his performance was a much-needed statement. ESPN analysts called it “a champion’s response,” and boxing social media exploded with respect for both fighters.

Cardenas, despite the loss, earned admiration for his heart and ability to challenge the king. His knockdown of Inoue will live on in highlight reels, even if the result didn’t go his way.

The Akhmadaliev Factor

Now it’s official—Inoue will face Uzbekistan’s Murodjon Akhmadaliev (13-1, 10 KOs) on September 14 in Japan.

Akhmadaliev is no pushover. The former unified champion is known for high-volume punching, relentless pace, and sharp angles. He’s defeated top-tier opponents and poses a serious stylistic challenge to Inoue’s dominance.

This fight won’t just be a battle of fists—it’s a battle of wills. Akhmadaliev will try to overwhelm. Inoue will aim to dissect. It’s the exact type of fight that builds legacies.

What the Inoue vs. Akhmadaliev Fight Would Mean​

With all belts on the line, this bout would crown a definitive king at 122 pounds. Inoue is already in the conversation about the best pound-for-pound in the world. Beating Akhmadaliev would cement it.

For Akhmadaliev, this is a shot at redemption and legacy. A win over Inoue would catapult him into boxing superstardom.

As for predictions? Inoue’s timing and power make him the favorite—but don’t count out Akhmadaliev’s pace and grit. It could be a fight-of-the-year contender.

Frequently Asked Questions​

What was the result of Inoue vs. Cardenas?

Inoue defeated Cardenas by TKO in the eighth round on May 4, 2024, after surviving a knockdown and putting on a dominant performance in the later rounds.

Why is Akhmadaliev a significant opponent?

Akhmadaliev is a former unified champion with high pressure, excellent fundamentals, and the tools to challenge Inoue’s dominance.

How does this win affect Inoue’s pound-for-pound status?

The win over Cardenas, especially after a knockdown, strengthens Inoue’s claim as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world.