The pre-fight press conference for “THE DAY,” scheduled for May 2 at the Tokyo Dome, was held on the 30th at the Tokyo Dome Hotel, with all four participants of the world title double-header in attendance.
３月の試合発表会見以来の対面となった井上㊧と中谷 photo/Naoki Fukuda
Unified super-bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (Ohashi), set to defend his titles in the main event, stated: “I have done everything possible in preparation. I feel very calm and am simply waiting for the fight in two days.” His challenger, Junto Nakatani (M.T), widely regarded as the ultimate threat to Inoue, also reported the completion of a successful training camp. “Not many boxers have the opportunity to stand in a place like this,” Nakatani said. “I maintained a sense of gratitude and enjoyed the process throughout my camp.”
“I have dedicated my life to this May 2 fight,” Inoue added. “I want everyone to burn the image of my performance that day into their memories.”
Nakatani countered with equal resolve: “On May 2, I will demonstrate the story of Junto Nakatani and ensure I come away with the victory.”
Both men appeared to carry a deep, quiet confidence heading into the showdown.
レジェンド井岡㊨を拓真が迎えるバンタム級戦 photo/Naoki Fukuda
Promoter Hideyuki Ohashi introduced the WBC world bantamweight title bout as “the other main event,” and both champion Takuma Inoue (Ohashi) and challenger Kazuto Ioka (Shisei) indicated they have completed satisfactory training camps.
Takuma described the clash with the legendary Ioka as “a fight that genuinely excites me.” While much of the tactical focus has centered on the opening rounds, Takuma appeared genuinely eager, stating, “We won’t know how it unfolds until the bell rings. I want as many people as possible to witness it.”
Ioka remained composed, remarking: “I have adjusted my preparation by drawing on my previous experience competing at bantamweight. I intend to stay focused on my responsibilities until I step into the ring. I will seize this opportunity and show everyone the moment I achieve my fifth divisional world title.”
Tickets for the massive event, which boasts a capacity of 55,000, sold out more than a month in advance. Promoter Ohashi revealed that both Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani are receiving the highest fight purses of their careers. Furthermore, pay-per-view sales on Lemino Premium are reportedly performing well.
The official weigh-in for the biggest super-fight in Japanese history will take place tomorrow, ahead of the fateful opening bell.
