Stephen Fulton on What He Learned From His Loss to Naoya Inoue
- Matthew Brown
- Oct 2
- 2 min read
10/02/2025
The loss is far behind him, but the lessons he took from it he carries with him into every fight in and out of the ring. For Stephen Fulton, his 2023 defeat to Japanese superstar Naoya Inoue has turned into one of the biggest victories of his career.
“I think I gained more than I lost, especially in my mental space, since fighting Naoya Inoue,” Fulton said. “That’s allowed me to fight better. I’m in a better headspace and really that loss is the best thing to happen to me. I know not to put my energy into things I can’t control. If my mental is perfect, I fight perfect.”
Fulton admits that the experience reshaped not just his career, but also his outlook on life.
“My mentality changed from losing, and seeing who turned their back, and how people treated me. Those life lessons forced me to be patient. I take that patience into the ring as well. It’s a fast-paced sport, but you have to be patient.”
Now, the former unified champion is vying for his fourth title across a third weight division. On October 25, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Fulton will face WBC Super Featherweight Champion O’Shaquie Foster in the co-feature of a stacked PBC PPV on Prime.
Heading into one of the most important fights of his career, Fulton emphasized that he is approaching the bout with a clear mind and renewed confidence.
“I’m just in a good space right now. I’m happy and enjoying myself. I don’t have to take it too seriously. That makes me a better version of myself in the ring.”
Fulton understands the challenge Foster presents, but he also knows how fickle boxing—and its fans—can be. For him, outside opinions are irrelevant.
“A lot of people say he’s gonna win and a lot of people say I’m gonna win,” Fulton said. “But none of those opinions matter when we get into the ring.”
Subscribe to the Brunch Boxing website, Twitter and Podcast for more updates and in-depth coverage of the world of boxing in and out of the ring.
Brunch Boxing Support Links: