“I was able to grasp how well I can move and perform by fighting Inoue,” Nakatani told Yahoo Japan. “That’s why I want to show everyone that I can become a world champion at junior featherweight.”
Nakatani also described the fight as one of the defining moments of his career.
“It was really enjoyable, and it was an irreplaceable experience in my boxing career and my life,” he said. “It would be a waste if I didn’t use it as fuel.”
The 28-year-old challenged Inoue for the undisputed super bantamweight championship at the Tokyo Dome but lost a unanimous decision by scores of 116-112, 116-112, and 115-113. In the 11th round, Inoue’s right uppercut fractured Nakatani’s left orbital bone, forcing surgery after the bout.
Nakatani said his recovery is progressing well, adding that his vision has fully returned. While he has not resumed full training, he expects to begin again soon as he continues working toward his next fight.
“My goal is to become a world champion at super bantamweight,” Nakatani said.
Although his immediate focus is reclaiming a title at 122 pounds, Nakatani also welcomed the possibility of facing Inoue again if another opportunity arises.
“Of course, I’d welcome it,” he said. “If I’m given another chance to challenge the champion, I’d like to do it.”
