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A knockout punch can echo through the ages when we speak of boxing. And the recent victory of Naoya Inoue over Stephen Fulton Jr. is no exception. The Japanese boxer’s stunning eighth-round knockout has cemented his place in the annals of boxing history. Further, it has earned him high appreciation from one of the sport’s most respected figures.

Recently, Teddy Atlas, the renowned trainer and former cornerman for Mike Tyson, has lauded Inoue’s performance. In a tweet, following the match, Atlas was all praises for Inoue. Moreover, this appreciation means something as Atlas has seen the rise and fall of many boxing greats. Additionally, it’s a great testament to Inoue’s prowess. But what exactly did Atlas say about Inoue?

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Naoya Inoue: a boxing phenomenon

Atlas’s recognition of Inoue’s skills goes beyond mere admiration. He describes Inoue as the “full package,” which encapsulates the boxer’s speed, power, smarts, technique, brains, instinct, timing, and controlled ferocity. Teddy further added, “I have always favored the 1930s- 1960s, 1970s-1980s, as Boxing’s best. But Inoue would have fit with the greatest of any era.”

Apparently, Inoue’s performance against Fulton was a clear demonstration of these attributes. Further, he took control of the fight from the outset. He used his fast jab and powerful punches to keep Fulton on the defensive. The knockout punch in the eighth round culminated Inoue’s relentless attack. A straight right to the chin and a short left sent Fulton to the canvas, ending the fight and earning Inoue Fulton’s WBC and WBO belts. Atlas’s words seem to capture the essence of this moment: “Simply Special.” But where does this victory take Inoue?

What lies ahead for Inoue?

Inoue’s victory over Fulton is proof of his bright future in the sport. At just 30 years old, Inoue is far from finished. His next goal is to become the undisputed champion. And it would mean a fight with IBF and WBA champ Marlon Tapales. The two reportedly could meet in November to unify all four major titles.

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This potential match-up is already generating buzz in the boxing community. If Inoue can continue to deliver performances like the one against Fulton, he is indeed on his way to becoming one of the all-time greats. As Atlas put it, Inoue would have fit with the greatest of any era, and it seems he is on the path to proving it.

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Read More: Mike Tyson: This ‘Mean Son of a B***h’ is Better Than Manny Pacquiao

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Naoya Inoue’s knockout victory over Stephen Fulton Jr. and the subsequent praise from Teddy Atlas underscores the Japanese boxer’s rising stature in the sport.

What do you think about Inoue’s performance and Atlas’s praise? Please feel free to share your views in the comments below.

Watch This Story: Naoya Inoue Net Worth: Five Biggest Fight Purse of His Illustrious Boxing Career

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