The stage is set for Naoya Inoue to become a frontrunner for Fighter of the Year in 2025. However, to achieve this, the undisputed super bantamweight champion must first defeat Ramon Cardenas on May 4. This highly anticipated match will take place in Las Vegas and will be broadcast on ESPN+ and Fubo in the U.S.
Inoue (29-0) is making his first appearance in the U.S. since 2021. As a four-division champion and undisputed victor in two weight classes, a win would pave the way for potential bouts against Murodjon Akhmadaliev, Nick Ball, and Junto Nakatani.
Known as “The Monster,” Inoue boasts 26 wins coming by way of knockout and is currently on a remarkable streak of 10 consecutive victories through his powerful punches. He is eager to maintain this momentum against Cardenas.
Cardenas (26-1), riding a 14-fight win streak, steps into his first world title match and has notched 14 knockouts in his career. Although he enters as a significant underdog, he remains confident and believes in his potential.
“I understand that moments like these can be overwhelming, but the ring remains constant,” Cardenas shared in an interview with BoxingScene. “No matter the setting, the ring has four corners, and I see this opportunity clearly. I asked for this moment, and now it’s time to seize it.”
Naoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas Undercard
Excitement builds around the Inoue vs. Cardenas card, featuring various bouts, including:
Rafael Espinoza vs. Edward Vazquez
- Division/Weight: Featherweight
- Espinoza Record: 26-0
- Vazquez Record: 17-2
- Belts at Stake: WBO Featherweight Title
In the co-main event, Rafael Espinoza defends his WBO featherweight title against Edward Vazquez. Espinoza recently solidified his title by defeating Robeisy Ramirez twice and aims to capture attention toward Inoue.
Rohan Polanco vs. Fabian Maidana
- Division/Weight: Welterweight
- Polanco Record: 15-0
- Maidana Record: 24-3
- Belts at Stake: N/A
Rohan Polanco takes on Fabian Maidana. Polanco, a 2020 Olympian, is also a WBO-ranked fighter and aims to improve his record in 2025. Maidana, the brother of former champion Marcos Maidana, seeks to stop Polanco’s rise.
Emiliano Vargas vs. Juan Leon
- Division/Weight: Super Lightweight
- Vargas Record: 13-0
- Leon Record: 11-2-1
- Belts at Stake: N/A
In another match, Emiliano Vargas faces Juan Leon. The son of a former world champion, Vargas has had a successful amateur career and aims for a fifth consecutive knockout win.
Fight fans can tune in to watch Naoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas on May 4 via ESPN+ and Fubo. For those interested, Fubo currently offers a free trial for new subscribers, allowing fans to stream live sports without a cable subscription.
