Inoue explained his stance in a recent interview. He said, "There are weight divisions in boxing for a reason. Featherweight is my limit. I'm not interested in going any higher."
The Japanese fighter's focus remains on his upcoming bout. He'll face Murodjon Akhmadaliev at the IG Arena in Nagoya in about a month and a half. This fight aligns with Inoue's career plans to stay at featherweight.
Inoue estimates he has about three years left in his boxing career, including this year. He's not in it for the money. His goal is to show the best version of himself in the ring.
"I always wanted to show the best Naoya Inoue. I wouldn't fight at super featherweight just because the money is good. The reason I box is not for the money."
Despite ruling out a fight with Davis, Inoue holds the American boxer in high regard. The two have exchanged pleasantries on social media. In January 2025, Davis wished Inoue luck before his fight against Kim Ye-joon.
Inoue acknowledged the mutual respect between them. He said, "I have a lot of respect for him and I hold him in high regard as a fighter. And basically we communicate through social media."
As Inoue prepares for his upcoming fight, he's aware of his physical limitations. He explained, "But there is a limit to how much I can build in terms of structure. I want to close my fighting career when the time is right."
While fans might be disappointed about missing out on an Inoue-Davis showdown, both fighters continue to pursue their own paths in the sport. Inoue remains focused on making the most of his remaining time in the ring at featherweight.