Ohashi Boxing Gym, to which undisputed world super bantamweight champion Naoya ‘’the Monster’’ Inoue belongs, said on Jan. 19 that Inoue was chosen as MVP for 2023 (o.k.a. the Sugar Ray Robinson Award) by the Boxing Writers Association of America.

  According to the gym, BWAA President Joseph Santoliquito gave Inoue and the gym’s head Hideyuki Ohashi that fact over the telephone.

Inoue, then, issued a statement, ‘’I feel greatly honored because I was highly recognized by writers in the world. I have reaffirmed the importance of receiving the award considering the association’s 98-year-old history. I will do my best in 2024 as well.’’

Ohashi said, ‘’It is absolutely sensational for Naoya Inoue to become the first Japanese to receive the award. In particular, considering the fact that the first recipient of that award in 1938 was legendary Jack Dempsey of all people. But Inoue’s story will continue from now on. It is only the beginning. So, please look forward to him.’’

  The 30-year-old Inoue became the undisputed world super bantamweight champion by beating Stephen Fulton of the United States and Marlon Tapales of the Philippines.

  The undefeated Inoue is expected to stay at the super bantamweight division this year to defend his titles. The fight with former two-weight world champion Luis Nery of Mexico at Tokyo Dome in May is considered as one option.