Inoue Reacts To ‘Extremely Disappointing’ Win

Key Takeaways:

• Naoya Inoue remains undefeated, further cementing his reputation.
• The title defense took place at The Ring V: “Night of the Samurai” in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• Inoue labeled his own performance “extremely disappointing,” despite a clear win.
• He is regarded as one of the sport’s preeminent pound-for-pound fighters.
• Even champions seek continuous improvement, according to Inoue’s self-critique.

Setting the Scene

Naoya Inoue, known by many fans as the “Monster,” stepped into the ring at The Ring V: “Night of the Samurai” on December 27, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Entering the bout with an untouched record, Inoue stood on the brink of further solidifying his reputation as one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters.

Outcome and Reaction

In a title defense against David Picasso, Inoue once again remained undefeated. While many observers celebrated his win as another step in a remarkable career, Inoue himself conveyed a starkly different perspective. “Extremely disappointing” was how the champion chose to characterize his performance. It was a frank admission, underlining the exceptionally high standards he sets for himself.

Inoue’s Continued Legacy

Despite feeling dissatisfied, Inoue’s standing in the boxing community remains lofty. Many have lauded him for his power, technical skill, and ring generalship. Indeed, his undefeated record and recognition as boxing’s pound-for-pound leader reflect a fighter who continues to define and redefine excellence.

Looking Ahead

The Riyadh victory ensures Inoue’s legacy remains unblemished, yet the man himself believes there is more work to be done. He confirmed his commitment to improvement—even when a win does not meet his internal bar for success. For admirers of “Monster,” what lies ahead may be just as fascinating as what he has already accomplished, as he pushes himself to reach the next level of ring mastery.