Arum, who founded Top Rank in 1973, has worked with some of boxing's biggest names. Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Floyd Mayweather, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, and Joe Frazier are just a few of the stars he's promoted. But it's Inoue who's left the biggest impression on the veteran promoter.
"Inoue is not only pound-for-pound the best in the world, Inoue is the best fighter I've ever seen, no matter what weight category or anything," Arum said in an interview with Jai McCallister. "I have never ever in the almost 60-years I've been in boxing seen anything like Inoue."
Inoue, known as "The Monster", has built an impressive career that backs up Arum's high praise. The Japanese fighter holds world titles in four weight divisions and has become the undisputed champion in both bantamweight and super bantamweight classes.
His record speaks for itself. Inoue has won all 29 of his professional fights, with 26 of those victories coming by knockout. He currently reigns as the undisputed super bantamweight champion, a title he's defended three times.
Inoue's last fight saw him knock out Marlon Tapales in the 10th round back in December 2023. The win added another highlight to his already stellar career.
The Monster isn't slowing down. He's gearing up for his 30th professional fight, set to take place on May 4 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Ramon Cardenas will step into the ring to challenge the undefeated champion.
Arum has played a crucial role in Inoue's career development. The promoter's vast experience in the boxing world makes his statement about Inoue even more significant.
Arum's journey in boxing spans over five decades, during which he's seen countless fighters come and go. For him to put Inoue above all others is a testament to the Japanese boxer's skill and achievements in the ring.
As Inoue continues to dominate and defend his titles, it's clear that Arum's high opinion of the fighter isn't just hype. The Monster has proven himself time and again, and at this rate, he might just cement his place as one of boxing's all-time greats.