Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue Fight Talks Confirmed by Frank Warren
Promoter Frank Warren has revealed that discussions are in progress for a blockbuster Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue fight, potentially taking place later in 2025 or early 2026.
An official announcement regarding Ball’s next opponent is expected within the next two weeks, according to Warren, who spoke exclusively to Boxing News ahead of Leigh Wood vs Anthony Cacace on Saturday.
Ball’s Recent Title Defence Builds Momentum
Undefeated Nick Ball (22-0-1, 13 KOs) successfully defended his WBA featherweight title for the second time in March, dominating former world champion TJ Doheny in a heated contest.
Ball’s trademark relentless pressure overwhelmed Doheny, whose corner withdrew him after 10 bruising rounds.
“Nick’s pressure was too much,” one ringside observer commented. “He’s becoming a real force at featherweight.”
Inoue’s Stunning Comeback Draws Global Praise
Meanwhile, Naoya Inoue defended his undisputed super-bantamweight titles with a dramatic eighth-round TKO win over Ramon Cardenas. Despite being knocked down in round two, the Japanese star roared back to secure victory.
Warren, clearly impressed, said:
“Inoue is a quality, quality fighter. Guys get caught—it’s what happens after that. He got up and showed why he’s one of the best.”
Early Talks Begin for Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue Fight
Warren confirmed that initial talks with Inoue’s team have already taken place, with both sides open to a super-fight across two elite weight classes.
“They’re up for it,” Warren said of Team Inoue, adding that Inoue may move up to featherweight for the matchup—his fifth weight class.
However, Warren emphasized the path to making the fight:
“They’ve got to come through their next fights first. But if all goes to plan, I’m confident we’ll get it done.”
What’s Next for Nick Ball?
Before facing Inoue, Ball must first get through his next bout, which Warren described as a “big fight” set to be announced shortly.
“We’re announcing a big fight for Nick in a couple of weeks,” Warren revealed. “He’s got to win that. Then, he’ll have another fight before we line him up for Inoue—hopefully by the end of the year or in February.”
Fight Timeline (Proposed)
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| March 2025 | Ball defeats Doheny to retain WBA featherweight title |
| May 2025 | Inoue defeats Cardenas in comeback win |
| Late May 2025 | Ball’s next opponent to be announced |
| End of 2025 / Early 2026 | Target window for Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue fight |
About the Fighters
Nick Ball
- Nationality: British
- Record: 22-0-1 (13 KOs)
- Title: WBA Featherweight Champion
- Style: Pressure fighter, high volume puncher
- Promoter: Frank Warren (Queensberry Promotions)
Naoya Inoue
- Nationality: Japanese
- Record: Undefeated (record TBD)
- Title: Undisputed Super-Bantamweight Champion
- Style: Power-puncher, elite footwork
- Nickname: “The Monster”
- More on Naoya Inoue’s Legacy (DoFollow)
Fan Reactions and Media Buzz
The boxing community has already started buzzing about the potential Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue fight. Fans have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to debate who would emerge victorious in a clash of styles between Ball’s forward march and Inoue’s elite precision.
“Ball’s a problem at 126,” wrote one fan. “But Inoue at featherweight? That’s fireworks waiting to happen.”
Conclusion: Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue Super-Fight in Sight
As excitement builds for a potential Nick Ball vs Naoya Inoue fight, both fighters must first navigate their upcoming challenges. But with talks underway and mutual interest confirmed, 2025 or early 2026 could see one of the most explosive featherweight showdowns in recent memory.
Stay tuned for Ball’s official next fight announcement, expected by late May.