Tapales all out to upset Inoue

MANILA, Philippines — WBA/IBF superbantamweight king Marlon Tapales is called the Nightmare and he hopes to be the worst dream ever for WBC/WBO titlist Naoya Inoue in their battle for the undisputed 122-pound throne at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo on Dec. 26. Tapales, 31, is the Philippines’ only reigning world boxing champion today and he’s determined to bring home the four straps plus The Ring Magazine belt. Inoue, 30, is known as the Monster and is widely considered as the fight game’s top pound-for-pound boxer in this era.

“Malaking bagay ‘to para sa akin at history ang gagawin natin,” said Tapales. “Minsan lang dumating ang opportunity na lumaban ng undisputed kaya gagawin ko ang lahat para makuha natin ang apat na korona at ang The Ring belt.” Tapales broke training camp in Las Vegas to land here over a week ago and drove straight to Baguio from the airport. Tapales and coach Ernel Fontanilla chose Baguio for the final phase of preparations because of its high altitude, close time difference and cool weather. Tapales would’ve had to deal with jet lag if he went from Las Vegas to Tokyo.

Tapales said it’s not the first time he’s training in Baguio where he once joined Manny Pacquiao’s team. Tapales said he’s not bothered by fighting in Inoue’s backyard. “’Di factor kung saan ang laban,” he said. “Basta tama ang preparation at training. Bilang boksingero, ‘di mawawala ang pressure. Sanay na tayo diyan. Nasa isip ko na kung umabot sa dulo, baka mag hometown decision. Pero tingin ko, isa sa amin babagsak at ‘di ako. Ang mga Hapon may sariling style. Karamihang sa kanila malawak ang amateur experience at mahusay ang footwork.”

A road warrior, Tapales has fought 13 fights overseas, losing twice. He has faced five Japanese opponents in six fights and won five. Tapales is undefeated in four bouts in Japan. Inoue has faced five Filipino opponents in six fights, winning all, including five by KO. Tapales’ record is 37-3 with 19 KOs while Inoue’s mark is 25-0 with 22 KOs.