Boxing fans are buzzing with anticipation as WBA world featherweight champion Nick Ball and unified super bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue have entered discussions for a highly awaited fight scheduled for December 2025. Ball, 28, recently defended his title against Irish fighter TJ Doheny on March 15, 2025, winning by TKO after ten rounds. This victory positioned him as the likely contender for the clash with the legendary Japanese boxer.
Nick Ball hailing from Liverpool voiced his willingness to face Naoya, 31, stating, "I am open to fighting anywhere, whether it be the UK, Saudi Arabia, Japan, or the US." This comment reflects Ball's confidence and ambition as he expresses eagerness to unify the featherweight division, currently shared by four champions including himself, Stephen Fulton, Angelo Leo, and Rafael Espinoza.
Leading up to the potential fight, both fighters recently exchanged playful banter on social media, showcasing their personalities. Ball inspired excitement following his bout against Doheny where he shocked fans by kicking his opponent after the bell rang, earning him mixed reactions. Hideyuki Ohashi, chairman of the Ohashi Gym and trainer for Naoya, humorously noted the need for Naoya to learn how to defend against kicks, jokingly stating, "Yoshiki Takei will have to teach him to cut kicks!"
After winning the bout, Ball addressed the fight's aftermath during his post-fight interview: "This will be a good fight. I believe when Naoya steps outside the ring, he won’t be able to keep me off him. I will prove this to everyone!" His confidence is reflected by his unblemished record so far: he currently stands at 22 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw with 13 KOs, and it's clear he is prepared to rise to the challenge.
Meanwhile, Naoya posted on social media, acknowledging Ball's antics with humor. "Ball is funny, but let's not kick!" he stated, solidifying his own fierce reputation. Ball responded directly to Naoya online, asking him to let him know when he is ready to kick it at 126 lbs, to which Naoya quipped back, 'Two fists are enough for me.' Their exchanges are not just playful; they show the mutual respect between two professional athletes, fostering excitement among fans.
Ohashi, reflecting on the competitive rivalry, commented, "The fight will be explosive from the first round. I am optimistic about how Naoya and Ball will match up. It's important to see how each fighter will strategize against the other." Clearly, the enthusiastic responses from both sides indicate the potential for what might be one of the most electrifying matchups in recent boxing history.
Adding to the late headlines, Ohashi confirmed Naoya’s planned fight against Ramon Cardenas, scheduled for May 4, 2025, and if victorious, Naoya’s pursuit of Ball’s featherweight title will be next on the agenda. Naoya has ambitions of capturing another title, this time moving up from super bantamweight to featherweight, as his impressive career sees him wishing to accumulate more accolades.
Aside from winning his title against Doheny recently, Nick Ball also expressed excitement about the prospect of combating other champions within the featherweight division, "Fulton has my belt! If I can face him it would be interesting. Being short, facing Espinoza could lead to some intriguing match-ups as well!" Not only is Ball hungry for the title, but he appears equally driven by the animated competition within the boxing community.
Naoya and Nick’s potential matchup has created significant buzz, not only because of their stellar records but also their contrasting fighting styles. Naoya, known for his explosive aggression and knockout power, stands at 5’5” (165 cm) against Ball's natural height advantage at 5’9” (175 cm). Each fighter brings unique skills to the ring, which could lead to unpredictable and best-bout-fighting strategies, enhancing fans’ excitement for the matchup.
For now, boxing enthusiasts around the world wait eagerly for December, as both fighters plan to sharpen their strategies en route to this eagerly anticipated duel. Who will emerge victorious? It's clear both fighters are motivated and capable, making this show possible. The overall atmosphere is alive with energy as both camps promote the fight to new heights.
The prevailing narrative allows Both Naoya and Nick to heighten their reputations and add fighting narratives to the boxing storybook, as they both have the potential to contribute monumental chapters. The boxing community eagerly watches the featherweight ranks shift, as they prepare for what could become one of the greatest boxing bouts seen.
