Naoya "Monster" Inoue's recent win against Junto Nakatani has reignited interest in his next opponent. After defending his undisputed super bantamweight title on May 2, boxing fans are eager to know who will step into the ring with the dominant champion.
Four Filipino fighters currently ranked in the top 10 of the super bantamweight division are considered strong candidates. Their respective backgrounds and fighting styles make for an intriguing mix.
Carl Jammes Martin
First on the list is unbeaten Carl Jammes Martin, ranked No. 2 by the WBO. The 26-year-old boasts a flawless record of 27 wins, 20 by knockout. However, questions remain about how he would perform under pressure against elite competition. Martin's recent fights, including a unanimous decision win over Aran Dipaen, have not significantly raised his profile.
Marlon "Nightmare" Tapales
Next is seasoned contender Marlon "Nightmare" Tapales, ranked No. 3. The former two-division champion is eager for a rematch with Inoue after a knockout loss in their first encounter in 2023. Tapales showcased resilience during that fight, which could make a second bout intriguing.
Jerwin "Pretty Boy" Ancajas
Jerwin "Pretty Boy" Ancajas, with a record of 38 wins, 4 losses, and 2 draws, is another notable contender. The former world champion is on the comeback trail after a defeat to Takuma Inoue. Ancajas recently scored a technical knockout victory in Tijuana, positioning himself for a potential title shot.
Gabriel "Iron Punch" Santisima
Lastly, Gabriel "Iron Punch" Santisima, a rising star from Cebu, has garnered attention with a three-fight winning streak. His recent victory for the WBO Asia Pacific super bantamweight title, including an upset over Subaru Murata, has placed him on the radar for a future showdown.
While these four contenders are generating buzz, former three-division champion Johnriel Casimero remains a wildcard in the conversation. He is set for a critical fight against Luis Nery, which could influence his future in the division.