“HE CHEATED”: Naoya Inoue Rages Relentlessly, Showing Scorecards and Accusing Nick Ball of Cheating in $25.1 Million Controversy
Tokyo, Japan – May 2, 2025 — Japanese boxing sensation Naoya Inoue has erupted in fury following a controversial bout with British challenger Nick Ball, accusing him of cheating and calling the officiating a “disgrace to the sport.” The explosive post-fight outburst came just hours after Inoue suffered a shocking loss in a high-stakes fight that cost him a potential $25.1 million payday in endorsements, sponsorships, and bonus purses.
The bout, held in Las Vegas, ended with a razor-thin split decision in favor of Ball. But what sparked outrage was not just the loss itself—it was the manner in which it unfolded. Inoue, known globally as “The Monster” for his undefeated streak and surgical precision, believes he was robbed.
“He cheated. They cheated. This was planned,” Inoue shouted at the post-fight press conference, slamming his hand on the podium as he displayed printed copies of the judges’ scorecards. “How can two judges score it 115–113 for him when I landed twice the punches and controlled the ring for nine rounds?”
Social media exploded within minutes, with fans and analysts divided over the result. Slow-motion replays shared online appear to show several questionable clinches, possible headbutts, and even a moment where Ball’s corner seemed to delay the start of a round.
Nick Ball, for his part, remained composed in his victory remarks. “It was a tough fight. Inoue’s one of the best in the world, but I believe I did what I needed to win. If he wants a rematch, I’m ready anytime, anywhere.”
However, Inoue is not backing down. His team has formally submitted a protest to the Nevada State Athletic Commission, requesting a full investigation into the officiating and potential foul play by Ball’s corner.
Boxing promoter Bob Arum weighed in, calling the decision “controversial but within the bounds of subjectivity.” Yet sources close to Inoue say the fighter feels betrayed not only by the result but by the broader system, which he claims is tainted by politics and favoritism.
This fight was poised to be a career-defining moment for Inoue, with multiple title unification paths and international sponsorship deals on the line. With this loss, many of those opportunities are now in jeopardy.
Whether the protest will lead to a rematch or even a reversal remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Naoya Inoue is not staying silent. And the boxing world is watching closely.
