The Ultimate Guide to “The Monster” Naoya Inoue vs TJ Doheny

Where To Watch:
📺 ESPN+ (USA), Sky Sports (UK), Lemino (Japan), BrunchBoxing.com (Live Round by Round Coverage)

Programming Note: US coverage begins at 5:45AM EST and will only include the main event and co-main event.

On September 3, 2024, at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, boxing fans worldwide will witness the return of “The Monster” Naoya Inoue as he defends his undisputed super bantamweight title against former champion TJ Doheny. This exciting matchup is set to headline an action-packed night of boxing, promising fireworks from the opening bell.

Main Event: Inoue vs. Doheny

Naoya Inoue (27-0, 24 KOs) vs. TJ Doheny (26-4, 20 KOs), 12 rounds, Super Bantamweight

What’s At Stake: Inoue’s Undisputed Super Bantamweight title

Naoya Inoue, the undefeated Japanese sensation, returns to the ring for the second defense of his undisputed super bantamweight title. Known for his explosive power, pinpoint accuracy, and relentless aggression, Inoue has built a reputation as one of the most feared fighters in the sport. His opponent, TJ Doheny, a former IBF super bantamweight champion, brings experience, durability, and a southpaw stance that could pose challenges for Inoue.

Path to Victory: Naoya Inoue

Inoue’s path to victory lies in his ability to impose his power early and often. With 24 knockouts in 27 fights, Inoue has demonstrated the ability to end fights in devastating fashion. His body shots are particularly lethal, and targeting Doheny’s midsection could pave the way for an early stoppage. Inoue’s speed and timing should allow him to neutralize Doheny’s southpaw stance, while his footwork will enable him to control the distance and dictate the pace of the fight. If Inoue can land clean, powerful combinations early, it could be a short night for Doheny.

Path to Victory: TJ Doheny

For Doheny, the key to victory will be to weather the early storm and take the fight into the later rounds. While Inoue has shown little vulnerability, Doheny’s experience in tough fights could serve him well. By using lateral movement, Doheny can avoid standing in front of Inoue’s power shots and look to counter with his own combinations. If Doheny can establish his jab and keep Inoue at bay, he might be able to frustrate the champion and create opportunities to score points. Surviving the early rounds and taking the fight deep would give Doheny his best chance to capitalize on any potential fatigue or openings in Inoue’s defense.

Gambling Odds and Predictions:

• Inoue: -5000 ML, -4000 ML 3Way, -1050 KO/TKO, +850 Decision.
• Doheny: +1600 ML, +2000 ML 3Way, +3100 KO/TKO, +5000 Decision.
• Total Rounds: Over 4.5 at +102, Under 4.5 at -128.
• Fight To Go The Distance: +640 Yes, -1400 No
• Total Knockdowns: Over 0.5 at -1150, Under 0.5 at +650; Over 1.5 at -430, Under 1.5 at +280; Over 2.5 at +110, Under 2.5 at -170.
• Prediction: Inoue KO/TKO

The odds heavily favor Inoue, and for good reason. His power and precision make him a nightmare for any opponent, and Doheny will need to be at his absolute best to avoid an early stoppage. Expect Inoue to target Doheny’s body early and often, leading to a mid-round stoppage.

Co-Main Event: Takei vs. Higa

Yoshiki Takei (9-0, 8 KOs) vs. Daigo Higa (21-2-1, 19 KOs), 12 rounds, Bantamweight

What’s At Stake: Takei’s WBO Bantamweight title

In the co-main event, Yoshiki Takei will defend his WBO bantamweight title for the first time against former WBC flyweight champion Daigo Higa. Takei, known for his power and aggression, has been on a tear since turning professional, with eight knockouts in nine fights. Higa, who has revitalized his career with a four-fight win streak, poses a significant threat with his own power and experience.

Path to Victory: Yoshiki Takei

Takei’s best strategy will be to start fast and apply pressure from the opening bell. Higa has shown vulnerabilities in the past, particularly when forced to fight on the back foot. Takei should look to overwhelm Higa with volume and power, keeping him from settling into a rhythm. If Takei can establish dominance early, he could force Higa into mistakes and capitalize with a stoppage victory.

Path to Victory: Daigo Higa

Higa’s path to victory involves using his experience and defensive skills to outlast Takei’s early onslaught. By staying composed and countering effectively, Higa can create openings as Takei becomes more aggressive. Higa’s power will also be a key factor; if he can land clean shots, particularly in exchanges, he has the potential to turn the fight in his favor. Surviving the early rounds and dragging Takei into deeper waters could give Higa the edge in the later stages of the fight.

Gambling Odds and Predictions:

• Takei: -430 ML, -360 ML 3Way, +185 KO/TKO, +110 Decision.
• Higa: +310 ML, +330 ML 3Way, +600 KO/TKO, +800 Decision.
• Fight To Go The Distance: -142 Yes, +112 No
• Prediction: Takei KO/TKO

Takei’s relentless pressure and power give him the edge in this matchup. Higa will need to be at his defensive best, but Takei’s ability to close the distance and land heavy shots will likely lead to a stoppage victory.

The Rest of the Card:

Ismael Barroso (25-4-2, 23 KOs) vs. Andy Hiraoka (23-0, 18 KOs), 12 rounds, junior welterweight

What’s At Stake: Barroso’s WBA Interim Junior Welterweight title, WBA Mandatory Title Shot

Ismael Barroso returns to defend his WBA interim junior welterweight title against the undefeated Andy Hiraoka. Barroso, known for his devastating power, will look to continue his reign with another knockout victory. Hiraoka, on the other hand, aims to make a statement by defeating the veteran and positioning himself for a shot at the full WBA title.

Path to Victory: Ismael Barroso

Barroso has to attempt to blitz Hiraoka early and make it a fire fight. At 41, Barroso is long in the tooth, but still has shown that he can crack. He has to test Hiraoka’s chin early and often to attempt to get him out of there.

Path to Victory: Andy Hiraoka

The young, strong and durable Hiraoka has to use intelligent pressure and movement against Barroso. He can’t make it a fire fight. Hiraoka must box and move to tire the much older fighter out. Hiraoka has a significant advantage in the later rounds.

Gambling Odds and Predictions:

• Prediction: Hiraoka KO/TKO

Jin Sasaki (17-1-1, 16 KOs) vs. Qamil Balla (15-1-1, 8 KOs), 12 Rounds, Welterweight

What’s At Stake: WBO Asia Pacific Title

Jin Sasaki, one of Japan’s most exciting young prospects, will defend his WBO Asia Pacific title against the experienced Qamil Balla. Sasaki’s power and aggression make him the favorite, but Balla’s experience could make this a more competitive fight than expected.

Path to Victory: Jin Sasaki

Sasaki has to be on the attack early. He holds a significant power advantage. Sasaki has to use his aggression and varied power attack to keep Balla guessing.

Path to Victory: Balla has to box all night and hope to keep Sasaki off of him. Balla hasn’t been at this level before so he has to stay composed through the fire.

Gambling Odds and Predictions:

• Sasaki: -1200 ML, -360 KO/TKO, +500 Decision.
• Balla: +750 ML, +1200 KO/TKO, +1900 Decision.
• Total Rounds: Over 4.5 at +102, Under 4.5 at -128.
• Fight To Go The Distance: +350 Yes, -550 No
• Prediction: Sasaki KO/TKO

Toshiki Shimomachi vs. Ryuya Tsugawa
10 Rounds, Super Bantamweight

What’s At Stake: Japanese Super Bantamweight Title

The opening bout will feature a matchup for the Japanese super bantamweight title between Toshiki Shimomachi and Ryuya Tsugawa. Both fighters are known for their technical skills and grit, making this a fight to watch closely. Each fighter is looking to move past domestic level and get closer to a world title.

Path to Victory: Toshiki Shimomachi

Shimomachi will have to use his significant height and experience advantage against the younger, inexperienced Tsugawa. The jab will be key in disrupting the timing of Tsugawa and disguising the power shots Shimomachi hopes to land.

Path to Victory: Ryuya Tsugawa

Tsugawa must use his speed and significant reach advantage. Tsugawa is fighting in his first ten-round bout so he must pace himself throughout the bout.

Gambling Odds and Predictions:

• Prediction: Shimomachi Decision

Final Thoughts

With an explosive main event featuring one of boxing’s most exciting champions, a stacked undercard, and significant implications across several divisions, this is a night of boxing that fans won’t want to miss. Naoya Inoue’s return to the ring is always a must-see event, and TJ Doheny will undoubtedly give it his all in what is the toughest challenge of his career. Whether you’re tuning in for the main event or the rising stars on the undercard, this event promises to deliver drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments.

Don’t miss a second of the action—catch it live on ESPN+, Sky Sports, Lemino, or follow along with BrunchBoxing.com’s live round-by-round coverage!