Editor's Pick: In The Ring's November Issue On Newsstands, You'll Experience Boxing Hotbed Japan
Nov 4, 2025
1 min read
Naoya Inoue is a superstar in his native land. That's not a shock. But the sport has taken hold like none other, and we travel there for the experience of a lifetime. Magazines can be found at B&N. Pick up your copy .
Not too long ago, The Ring's Tom Gray insisted that Japan is a boxing hotbed beyond anyone's imagination here in States.
By the looks for it, he didn't exaggerate.
In the November issue that hits newsstands Tuesday, he not only writes about it — he shows it (Find your local B&N to pick up your copy here).
Tom went to Nagoya for Naoya Inoue's undisputed 122-pound title defense in September when he boxed the ears off Murodjon Akhmadaliev for a unanimous decision.
He actually met Akhmadaliev for a sit-down interview before the fight and was asked who he picked to win. That can be awkward for some, but not professionals. It's nothing personal. Tom picked Inoue.
Because of the 16-hour time difference with Las Vegas, this card overlapped with Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford.
And it also was during this time Tom learned of Ricky Hatton's death.
It was a whirlwind weekend, and puts in perspective what the job is — no, we don't just sit there, watch fights and go home.
It can be extremely chaotic, unpredictable, horrible and beautiful all at once.
Analysis
Noticias de combate
Next
Anthony Yarde Lighter Than David Benavidez Before Saturday's Ring IV PPV Event
Can you beat Coppinger?
Lock in your fantasy picks on rising stars and title contenders for a shot at $100,000 and exclusive custom boxing merch.
Partners
