World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation world super bantamweight champion Marlon

“Nightmare” Tapales promises to be a challenge for World Boxing Council and World Boxing Organization 122-pound champion Naoya Naouya when they meet inside the ring for an undisputed super bantamweight showdown targeted for December 26 in Japan.

Tapales, 37-3 with 19 knockouts as a professional boxer, is coming off an upset over former unified champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev last April in Texas, where he won by way of split decision.

“I will be the Japanese monster’s biggest nightmare this coming December in his hometown,” Tapales said.

“So glad, my everyday training always goes smoothly. My condition looks good, as well as my stamina, durability, punching power, and quickness. So by December during fight night, I will be better than ever. I will be ready to be Inoue’s worst nightmare,” he added.

According to MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons, who is in-charge of negotiating on behalf of Team Tapales, the contract for the showdown is close to getting signed in a few weeks.

According to Gibbons, Tapales is ready to give his all and more against Inoue.

“Marlon is known for his never-give-up attitude despite the tall odds. He fights in any given situation, adjusts, and never fears. He will be coming for the monster,” Gibbons said.

“Marlon has been in Japan four times in his career, he is also 4 and 0, and he’s going to be 5 and 0 in Japan when he beats Inoue,” he said.

Tapales is currently training in the United States, under the watchful eye of his coach Ernel Fontanilla.

The team plans to resume the final phase of their training camp next month with Baguio being eyed for training camp. (GMA Integrated News)