Boxing: Inoue singles out Rodriguez, ready to move up class if no bout

Undisputed super bantamweight world champion Naoya Inoue of Japan has named unbeaten American Jesse Rodriguez (24-0) as his preferred next opponent, with a potential bout targeted for around February 2027. Inoue, who extended his world title bout winning streak to 28 with a unanimous decision over Junto Nakatani at Tokyo Dome in May 2025, stated he will not fight again in 2026. If the Rodriguez fight does not materialize, Inoue — currently ranked No. 1 in Ring magazine's pound-for-pound rankings — intends to move up to featherweight in pursuit of a world title in a fifth weight division.