Inoue returning to United States to defend title vs. Cardenas

Naoya Inoue will defend his undisputed junior featherweight championship against Ramon Cardenas on May 4 in Las Vegas.

The bout will mark Inoue's first fight in the United States since a third-round victory over Michael Dasmarinas in June 2021. His past eight fights have taken place in his native Japan.

Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) has captured all four titles at 118 and 122 pounds, developing into one of the sport's best pound-for-pound fighters.

The 31-year-old defeated Kim Ye-joon via fourth-round knockout to retain his titles in January.

"I am thankful to the fans in America who have followed my career," Inoue said in a statement, according to ESPN's Mike Coppinger. "Fighting at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is another career highlight, and I look forward to putting on a great show for everyone in attendance. Cardenas is a tough opponent who I respect for accepting the fight without hesitation."

Cardenas (26-1, 14 KOs) has been idle since defeating Bryan Acosta via unanimous decision in February.

"When the fight was offered, I instantly accepted," Cardenas said. "I wouldn't say it's a lottery ticket, but you can't turn it down if you get a chance at the undisputed title. This is the opportunity of a lifetime."

The matchup will take place on the same weekend as Canelo Álvarez's title defense against William Scull and a star-studded card set for Times Square in New York City.