In a stunning upset that shook the boxing world, Takuma Inoue handed Tenshin Nasukawa his very first loss, reclaiming the WBC bantamweight title in a fight that will be remembered for years to come. But here's where it gets controversial—was Nasukawa's kickboxing background enough to prepare him for the relentless pressure of a seasoned boxer like Inoue? Let’s dive into the details.
On November 24, 2025, at Tokyo’s Toyota Arena, Takuma Inoue, the younger brother of undisputed super bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue, delivered a masterclass in boxing strategy. By unanimous decision, he dethroned Nasukawa, who had previously boasted an unblemished 8-0 record in his boxing career. This victory wasn’t just about the belt—it was Inoue’s redemption after losing the WBA title to Seiya Tsutsumi in October 2024.
Nasukawa, a kickboxing legend transitioning to boxing, started strong, showcasing his signature sharp left hand in the early rounds. However, Inoue’s stamina and relentless barrage of punches turned the tide in the middle rounds, leaving Nasukawa struggling to keep up. At 29, Inoue improved his record to 21-2, with five knockouts, proving he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
“Thank you. I’m back,” Inoue declared post-fight, his relief palpable. “Beating Tenshin means more to me than reclaiming the belt. It’s a joy I can’t describe.” He credited Nasukawa for pushing him to his limits, saying, “Facing Tenshin made me work like never before.”
For Nasukawa, this was a humbling moment. Just two and a half years into his boxing journey, the 27-year-old southpaw fell to 7-1, with two knockouts. Yet, he remained gracious in defeat: “I gave it everything. No regrets. I’m proud to have been part of such an intense fight.”
But here’s the burning question: Can a kickboxing star truly dominate boxing? Nasukawa’s loss raises doubts about the crossover potential between these combat sports. While his early rounds were impressive, Inoue’s boxing pedigree ultimately prevailed. Is this the end of Nasukawa’s boxing aspirations, or will he rise again? And for Inoue, does this victory solidify his place among boxing’s elite?
What do you think? Did Inoue’s win prove that boxing experience trumps all, or is there still room for Nasukawa to evolve? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over!
