TOKYO - Undisputed super bantamweight world champion Naoya Inoue of Japan on Monday named American Jesse Rodriguez as his potential next opponent while expressing his intention to move up to featherweight should the matchup not materialize.
Inoue said during an event in his hometown of Zama, Kanagawa Prefecture, that there was a chance of facing WBA bantamweight super champion Rodriguez "around (next) February," adding he would not fight for the rest of 2026.
Rodriguez, 24-0 in his career, will need to move up a category to face Inoue, who also has an eye on winning a world title at featherweight to conquer his fifth division if the bout does not take place.
"It's whether the bout is on or not. I could move up a category," said Inoue, who is top of Ring magazine's pound-for-pound rankings in which Rodriguez is fourth. "I'm not fixated about it (facing Rodriguez)."
"The Monster" Inoue beat compatriot Junto Nakatani by unanimous decision in May at Tokyo Dome -- where both entered the blockbuster with 32-0 career records -- and extended his record winning streak in world title bouts to 28.
Inoue has been having light sessions since defending his four belts in the classic encounter, having fought four times in 2025.
"I was in this position for around two years where I had my opponents already lined up once one was done," Inoue said. "I suppose this is a period where I rest my body."
