Filipino ring warrior Marlon Tapales is teeming with confidence as he primes himself up for the much-anticipated belt unification clash against the formidable Naoya ‘Monster’ Inoue next week in Japan.
In a recent media workout held in Paranaque, Tapales made a resolute vow to be fierce and fearless, emphatically declaring that the highly esteemed Japanese star holds no power to intimidate him when they face off for the undisputed super-bantamweight championship on Dec. 26 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
Inoue, widely recognized as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters globally, is set to put his World Boxing Council and World Boxing Organization straps on the line.
For his part, Tapales brings the World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation belts to the table, aiming to be the Philippines’ first undisputed champion.
Unlike many of Inoue’s previous adversaries, Tapales stands undeterred by the Japanese star’s fearsome reputation.
“I have no fear. That’s an advantage, I think, because most of his opponents got intimidated easily,” said Tapales, downplaying the considerable odds stacked against him.
Throughout his recent fights, Tapales has consistently embraced the underdog role, often taking on opponents on their home turf.
However, the impending clash with Inoue presents a new echelon of challenge. Recognizing the necessity for extraordinary performance, Tapales underwent a rigorous training regimen, including an extensive stint in Las Vegas before relocating to Baguio City.
With a ring record of 37-3 and 19 knockouts, Tapales acknowledges that his statistics pale in comparison to Inoue’s impressive numbers—25 wins, 22 by knockout, in as many fights.
Nevertheless, Sean Gibbons of MP Promotion places unwavering faith in Tapales’ unique style.
Gibbons emphasizes that “styles make fights,” highlighting the Filipino southpaw’s solid stance and tactical brilliance as potent weapons capable of disrupting Inoue’s ambitious plans to move up in weight and claim additional world titles.
In a bold proclamation, Gibbons predicts Tapales as the “Monster slayer” and envisions a triumphant “Monster win” for the Filipino fighter in their highly anticipated bout, set to be broadcast live on TV5’s Cignal ONE Sports channel.