Inoue’s Precision Shut Picasso Out of the Championship
Naoya Inoue defeated Alan David Picasso by unanimous decision on December 27, 2025, at Mohammed Abdo Arena in Riyadh. Scores of 120–108, 119–109 and 117–111 preserved his undisputed super bantamweight championship after twelve rounds controlled by speed, combinations and accurate body punching.
The undefeated challenger could not impose a consistent attack
Picasso entered without a professional defeat and remained determined throughout the contest. He had moments of success but could not consistently neutralize Inoue’s hand speed or disrupt the champion’s timing.
Inoue varied his punches between head and body, forcing the challenger to defend across different levels. The sustained accuracy allowed him to build a large advantage without needing an early knockout.
Picasso’s durability carried the fight to the final bell
The Mexican continued competing despite absorbing the greater share of the clean connections. His defense and resilience prevented Inoue from producing the stoppage he had hoped to deliver.
All three judges nevertheless preferred the champion by clear margins. The decision rewarded a complete twelve-round performance rather than one isolated knockdown or a late reversal.
A fourth victory completed an unusually active championship year
Inoue moved to 32–0 with twenty-seven knockouts after earlier 2025 victories over Ye Joon Kim, Ramon Cardenas and Murodjon Akhmadaliev. Picasso’s record became 32–1–1.
Afterward, Inoue expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of his performance despite retaining every major belt. The victory closed his year with another successful defense and continued attention on a possible future meeting with compatriot Junto Nakatani.
