Inoue displays fearsome power, stops McDonnell
By John J. Raspanti
Beware bantamweights, "The Monster" is in the building.
Budding Japanese star Naoya “The Monster” Inoue (16-0, 14 KOs) blasted out Jamie McDonnell in the opening round to capture his third world title in 16 fights at the Ota-City General Gymnasium Friday night in Tokyo, Japan
McDonnell, fighting on the road for the fourth time in his last five fights, popped his jab and moved side to side. If he was curious about Inoue’s nickname, he’d find out soon enough.
Inoue, loaded with power, stalked and popped. He concentrated his attack to the body of his much taller foe. One of his thudding shots seemed to bother McDonnell.
A long left off the top of the head staggered McDonnell. A few seconds later, a big left hook to the body floored him. McDonnell got up with a stunned look on his face. Inoue,25, moved in for the kill. He forced McDonnell,32, into the ropes and let fly with a barrage of shots.
McDonnell collapsed on his side as referee Luis Pabon waved off the contest.
The time was 1:50 into the opening stanza. A visibly upset McDonnell lost for the first time in 11 years. He had defended his portion of the bantamweight belt seven times before running into Inoue.
Inoue quietly celebrated in his corner. He had previously held the WBC light flyweight and WBO super flyweight titles.
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