Naoya Inoue and Jesse Rodriguez in negotiations for March fight in Tokyo

Negotiations are underway to arrange a boxing match between unified super bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue and WBA bantamweight champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, potentially scheduled for March in Tokyo. According to reports from The Ring, Inoue’s representative, John Lewis, is working with Matchroom Boxing to finalize the contract, noting that both fighters are eager for the bout.

Matchroom CEO Frank Smith confirmed that positive dialogues are progressing, though he noted that a decision may need to be reached within the coming week due to time constraints. Inoue has expressed a desire for a direct matchup, stating that if a fight with Rodriguez does not materialize, he may consider moving up to the featherweight division.

In the context of a potential move to featherweight, former champions have discussed potential opponents such as Rafael Espinoza. Analysts have highlighted Espinoza’s physical toughness and unconventional tactics, including concerns regarding the use of elbows during exchanges, as significant challenges for Inoue should he change weight classes.