The super bantamweight division might be packed to the brim with talent but no one has established themselves as the man to beat quite like Stephen Fulton.

You name 'em and Fulton has likely already beaten them. From stripping nine undefeated fighters of their 0 to taking home two of the four major world titles at 122 pounds, Fulton (21-0, 8 KOs) has little left to prove. Currently, the newly turned 29-year-old’s biggest battle has been on the scales. But while he could have opted to move up in weight a while ago, Fulton was hoping that Naoya Inoue would decide to invade his division. He officially has.

So far, Inoue (24-0, 21 KOs) has been destructive. With countless knockouts under his belt, Inoue easily became an undisputed champion at 118 pounds. Along the way, the Japanese native has been keeping tabs on Fulton. His movement, underrated power, and of course, his boxing IQ, Inoue has been essentially studying him.  

In just a few more days on July 25th, at the Ariake Arena, Inoue will pull out his notes and attempt to use everything he’s learned to pick up the victory. Having placed Fulton under the microscope for a number of years now, Inoue is convinced that he knows Fulton’s style inside and out.  

“My impression is that he uses his feet the full 12 rounds," said Inoue to Top Rank Boxing. "He strictly uses his boxing style and comes to win. He also has the physical side too. He has stamina to go all 12 rounds. He is definitely a powerful opponent.”

The uniqueness of Fulton’s game has led him to a perfect record and worldwide recognition as one of the best around. Facing Fulton comes with a long list of bemusing and head-scratching issues. That said, however, Inoue believes that he brings something different to the table.

By and large, Inoue, despite facing the best of the best, won’t be mendacious in saying that Fulton is your typical run-of-the-mill fighter. Inoue, nevertheless, demands that very respect as well.

“I don’t think I’ve ever fought an opponent like Fulton but at the same time, Fulton can say the same for me.”