The stage is set for Sunday, May 4, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, as boxing fans around the world witness a historic showdown featuring Japan’s pound-for-pound king, Naoya Inoue, defending his undisputed junior featherweight title against Ramon Cardenas. This is not just a fight; it’s a monstrous night for the sport, with Espinoza vs. Vazquez co-featuring in a high-stakes title defense.
The event will stream live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, with the action kicking off earlier on ESPN+ at 6:15 p.m. ET / 3:15 p.m. PT.
Inoue’s Reign Continues — Can Cardenas Break the Streak?
Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) returns to the U.S. for the first time since 2021, having cemented himself as one of boxing’s most dominant forces by capturing undisputed titles in two weight divisions. After dominating fighters like Stephen Fulton, Marlon Tapales, and Nonito Donaire, Inoue’s power and precision are unmatched. He looks to extend his reign in what is sure to be another explosive performance.
“I’m focused on defending my title and continuing my legacy. This fight is a crucial part of that journey,” said Inoue.
Cardenas (26-1, 14 KOs) enters this title fight with momentum after winning 14 straight bouts, including a breakout 2024 that saw him stop Israel Rodriguez Picazo and Eduardo Ramirez. “This is my moment to prove myself to the world,” said Cardenas. “I’ve worked hard to get here, and I believe I have what it takes to take this title.”
Espinoza Defends WBO Title in Tough Fight Against Vazquez
In the co-feature, Rafael Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) will defend his WBO featherweight world title against Edward Vazquez (17-2, 4 KOs). Espinoza is riding high after his stunning Upset of the Year victory over Robeisy Ramirez in December 2023. He’s made two successful defenses since, including a rematch stoppage win over Ramirez in six rounds. Now, Espinoza faces Vazquez, a tough competitor who’s looking to build on his own impressive wins in 2024, including a stoppage victory over Kenneth Taylor.
“I’m ready to give my best performance,” said Espinoza. “I’ve earned this title, and I’ll defend it with everything I’ve got. Vazquez is a strong fighter, but I’m ready to show my skills.”
Vazquez, on the other hand, is hungry for a world title shot after a string of strong performances. “I’ve been waiting for this moment, and I’m ready to take advantage of it,” said Vazquez.
Under the Spotlight: A Stack of Rising Talent
The night will also feature a stacked undercard, showcasing top contenders and future stars:
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Rohan Polanco vs. Fabian Maidana (10 rounds, WBO Intercontinental Welterweight Title)
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Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Juan Leon (8 rounds, Vacant Jr. NABF Junior Welterweight Title)
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Mikito Nakano vs. Pedro Marquez (10 rounds, featherweight)
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Art Barrera Jr. vs. Juan Carlos Guerra Jr. (6 rounds, junior middleweight)
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Raeese Aleem vs. Rudy Garcia (10 rounds, featherweight)
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Patrick O’Connor vs. Marcus Smith (4 rounds, cruiserweight, swing bout)
Why You Should Watch
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Inoue vs. Cardenas: The undisputed world champion defending his title against an emerging challenger.
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Espinoza vs. Vazquez: A battle between two hungry fighters vying for the WBO featherweight crown.
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Packed undercard: Featuring rising stars, top contenders, and a thrilling lineup of action.
Confirmed Fights
Main Card
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Naoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas, 12 rounds, undisputed junior featherweight title
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Rafael Espinoza vs. Edward Vazquez, 12 rounds, WBO featherweight title
Undercard
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Rohan Polanco vs. Fabian Maidana, 10 rounds, WBO Intercontinental Welterweight Title
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Emiliano Fernando Vargas vs. Juan Leon, 8 rounds, Vacant Jr. NABF Junior Welterweight Title
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Mikito Nakano vs. Pedro Marquez, 10 rounds, featherweight
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Art Barrera Jr. vs. Juan Carlos Guerra Jr., 6 rounds, junior middleweight
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Raeese Aleem vs. Rudy Garcia, 10 rounds, featherweight
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Patrick O’Connor vs. Marcus Smith, 4 rounds, cruiserweight
Event Info
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Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
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Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
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Time: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT / 3:00 AM UK
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Stream: LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+
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Tickets: Available now via AXS.com