Marlon Tapales, the unified WBA and IBF super bantamweight world champion, will be ringside to witness the highly anticipated showdown between WBC, WBO champion Stephen Fulton and pound-for-pound star Naoya Inoue.
The bout is scheduled to take place in Tokyo, Japan on July 25. ESPN+ will steam the fight in the United States.
Tapales, recognizing the significance of the matchup, is eager to observe the skills and strategies displayed by the two formidable fighters, as they vie for supremacy at 122-pounds.
Should Inoue win, he will become the second Japanese boxer in history to capture a world title in four weight divisions.
Attending the event will provide Tapales with a valuable opportunity to assess his potential next opponent – as both fighters have stated that Tapales is next for the undisputed super bantamweight title.
Joining Tapales on this journey will be his manager, Jim Claude Manangquil of Sanman Boxing, and promoter Sean Gibbons of MP Promotions.
By studying the techniques and styles of both Fulton and Inoue, Tapales aims to fine-tune his own skills and develop a winning strategy tailored to his next challenge.
Tapales pulled off a big upset back in April, when he secured a twelve round split decision over unbeaten Murodjon
Akhmadaliev to capture the WBA, IBF titles in San Antonio, Texas.
IN OTHER NEWS: The local fans in Malungon, Sarangani Province, were treated to a night of action as local fighters showcased their skills in an unforgettable event. Headlining the event was the clash between Joey Canoy and Clyde Azarcon, where Canoy emerged victorious in a bout that saw Azarcon hit the canvas four times.
From the opening bell, it was evident that both fighters were prepared to leave it all in the ring. However, it was Canoy who demonstrated his superior skills and relentless power, overwhelming Azarcon with a barrage of punches that sent him to the canvas multiple times throughout the fight. Canoy’s precision and calculated aggression proved to be too much for Azarcon to handle.