Naoya Inoue’s next mandatory challenger set to be determined in interim title fight

Naoya Inoue could soon have greater clarity over his next mandatory challenger after the IBF ordered an interim title fight at super-bantamweight.

Inoue has been linked to a showdown with Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez ever since his victory over Junto Nakatani last month, but the American looks set to remain at bantamweight for another fight following his WBA title win over Antonio Vargas.

As a result, before Inoue can faces Rodriguez in early 2027, the undisputed champion may target another defence of his super-bantamweight undisputed title in either September or October.

At present, John Riel Casimero could be under consideration for that bout, whilst fellow Filipino Carl Jammes Martin remains the WBO mandatory challenger.

However, the IBF have now moved to establish a clear contender of their own, ordering an interim title fight between Australia’s Sam Goodman and Japan’s Ryosuke Nishida, according to No Limit Boxing.

WORLD TITLE FIGHT MANDATED 🥊

Australia’s Sam Goodman (22-1) has been ordered by the IBF to face Japan’s No. 1 contender Ryosuke Nishida (11-1) for the IBF Interim Super Bantamweight World Title.

The winner earns a shot at the undisputed king, Naoya Inoue 👑 pic.twitter.com/nTaDdT9GV2

— No Limit Boxing (@NoLimit_Boxing) June 15, 2026

The teams of Goodman and Nishida have 30 days from the date of the order to negotiate terms before the fight heads to purse bids.

Goodman had been expected to face former Inoue opponent Ramon Cardenas in a clash for the WBC Interim title on the undercard of Tim Tszyu’s showdown with Errol Spence Jr next month.

As a result, No Limit Boxing may now attempt to add Goodman-Nishida to that bill instead, which already features the return of Jermall Charlo, provided Nishida can be ready in time.

Alternatively, Goodman could end up venturing to Japan for the first time in his professional career, where he would have the chance to further strengthen his credentials with local fans ahead of a potential future meeting with ‘The Monster’.

Whether or not the winner of the fight lands a shot at Inoue remains to be seen – ‘The Monster’ has made it clear that he wants the Rodriguez fight at this weight before moving up for one last division before retirement.