Japan’s Unbeaten ‘Monster’ Inoue KOs Moloney in Las Vegas Debut

Naoya 'Monster' Inoue defended his unified WBA and IBF Bantamweight World titles in his Las Vegas debut Saturday with Australian Jason Moloney's seventh-round knockout.

The unbeaten Japanese powerhouse floored Moloney, shuddering at the end of the round, to hold both belts in spectacular fashion at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, reports AFP.

The 27-year-old Inoue landed a vicious straight right that buckled Moloney’s knees in the 118-pound fight and the Australian was unable to beat the count with just one second left in the round

“The final punch, I’m very happy and satisfied with that punch,” said Inoue. “Moloney has great defence it was difficult to get through.”

Inoue recorded two knockdowns and improved to 20-0 with 17 knockouts, while Moloney fell to 21-2 with 18 KOs.

Inoue dominated the entire battle that took place inside the quarantine bubble at the luxurious casino on the Las Vegas strip.

Inoue’s devastating punching power was on full display as he showed why he is nicknamed ‘Monster’.

Inoue knocked Moloney down for the first time in the sixth round with a left hook on the counter. One round later, he finished it with a quick right hand. Moloney attempted to get back to his feet but was unable to do so, and Kenny Bayless, the referee, counted him out at 2:59 of the round.

Last November, Inoue reunited the IBF and WBA crowns by winning the final of the World Boxing Super Series over Filipino star Nonito Donaire by unanimous decision in the pulsating "battle of the year" contestant.

The Japanese knockout specialist had to dispatch his four prior foes in less than three rounds.

Inoue was expected to face another Filipino, John Riel Casimero, in April, but the coronavirus pandemic was wiped out.

The 29-year-old Moloney stopped Mexico's Leonardo Baez after seven rounds in June, but was overtaken by the pace and strength of Inoue.