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Naoya Inoue relishes the “Monster” tag and wants to show Americans and the global audience he deserves the moniker.
Michael Dasmariñas fears no one and is eager to hunt down the Japanese power puncher.
They met for the first time on Thursday and will clash on Saturday, June 19 (Sunday, June 20, Philippine time) with Inoue’s World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation bantamweight crowns at stake at The Theater of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.
“I’m very happy that the nickname ‘Monster’ comes before Naoya Inoue,” said Inoue during the final press conference of the Top Rank event being aired by ESPN. “I’m very happy and honored, and I’ve taken… ‘Monster’ [as far as] in the United States as my name.”
The unbeaten Inoue (17-0, with 17 knockouts) said he will put up a career-defining performance against Dasmariñas, the mandatory challenger.
“I feel the expectations, and I want to answer those expectations, and I want to have a performance Saturday night to answer to those expectations.”
Inoue aims to knock Dasmariñas out and then go after the crowns being held by Filipinos Johnriel Casimero (World Boxing Organization) and Nonito Donaire (World Boxing Council).
“Basically, [becoming undisputed champion] means I’m the best in that weight class, the bantamweight division. To prove that, that’s why I’m going after all four belts.”
Dasmariñas (30-2-1 with 20 knockouts) is ready to spoil Inoue’s dream.
“I did everything I am supposed to do in training, and I am prepared, and I will do whatever it takes to give a good fight to Naoya Inoue,” said Dasmariñas, who waited over two years to get a crack at Inoue.
“America has to learn about my very hot and spicy punches!” said Dasmariñas, referring to his “Hot and Spicy” moniker.
Top Rank big boss Bob Arum hailed the return of Inoue to Las Vegas after disposing of Australian Jason Moloney last October 31.
“Monster is back in the United States, and he’s fighting a tough Filipino,” said Arum. “And I know from experience how tough Filipino fighters are. So this should be a very, very enjoyable fight. I can’t wait for Saturday night because the fists will be flying.”
Donaire was present in the presscon and met with Inoue, who promised to give the “Filipino Flash” a chance to avenge a close unanimous decision loss in 2019 in Japan. – Rappler.com
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