Nakatani Stops Cuellar; Is Inoue A Possibility?
Junto Nakatani is still undefeated after he knocked out David Cuellar in round three in their WBC Bantamweight Title clash.
The win extended Nakatani’s record to 30-0, as he retained his WBC belt. It was the 23rd stoppage win of his career. Before the fight, Nakatani was clear that wanted to unify the division.
“In order to move on to a unification bout, I’ll try to beat the challenger and have my strength recognized more by people in the boxing world. My preparation has gone well,” Nakatani revealed
“I believe I can give him a good fight. I’m ready to throw a lot of punches and bring the title to my country,” Cuellar said
He ended proceedings in the third round in devastating fashion. After initially getting caught, Nakatani worked himself in a position to land his left hand. Once it did, he dropped Cuellar who went crashing to the canvas. Although he beat the count, it was clear the writing was on the wall. Nakatani pounced once again with another left hand to drop his opponent. Cuellar failed to beat the count, as Nakatani secured an impressive win. He was joined by the IBF Super Bantamweight Champion Ryosuke Nishida in the ring. It seems the next target is a unification in a mega-Japanese domestic clash.
Post-Fight
“David’s the tallest fighter I’ve ever fought against, so that was a concern, but I’m so happy I got the stoppage. Did you get to see my defence? He was really good at avoiding my punches, so in that aspect he’s a great fighter. This time, Nishida, let’s fight. Go ahead and let’s do this – I really want to do this,” Nakatani said
“I was worried a little bit because of my opponent’s height, but I’m glad I beat him, I’ll try to become a unified world champion and then look for new heights,” Nakatani added
If he does not unify, there is an outside chance that Nakatani could move up to super bantamweight. There has been mass speculation that he could face Naoya Inoue later down the line. The latter is a two-weight undisputed champion, having won all the belts at bantamweight and super bantamweight. Inoue is the biggest star in Japan, giving Nakatani every incentive to beat his man. Nakatani has previously said that this is a fight he wants.
“I’m going to do what I have to do for now. If there is a chance, I will. I would like first to fight his brother Takuma and then Naoya,” Nakatani stated
Full Card
Junto Nakatani defeated David Cuellar to keep the WBC bantamweight title in a third round stoppage.
Tenshin Nasukawa won by unanimous decision over Jason Moloney in a bantamweight fight.
Seiya Tsutsumi fought Daigo Higa to a draw, keeping the WBA bantamweight title.
Ryuya Moriai stopped Eigoro Akai in the second round of their super middleweight fight.
Ryosuke Kiuchi won by unanimous decision over Fuentes Kitajima in a lightweight bout.
Hayato Aiko defeated Yuki Sato by unanimous decision in a featherweight fight.
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