Hernandez has built Nakatani (32-0, 24 KOs) from a boy to a man and guided him to knockout results as a three-division champion and The Ring’s No. 7 pound-for-pound fighter.

Now, they are at the doorstep of the biggest fight in Japanese boxing history against 122-pound undisputed champion Naoya Inoue on May 2.

More than 55,000 fans are expected to watch the dramatic fight at Tokyo Dome unfold between "The Monster" Inoue, a 33-year-old four-division titleholder from Yokohama, and "Big Bang" Nakatani, a 28-year-old southpaw and three-division champion from Kanagawa.

“We’re fortunate to be in this position, and to bring this kind of highly anticipated fight to Japan – how great is that?” Hernandez told The Ring after a recent training session at the LA Boxing Gym.

“It’s going to be a game-changer for both guys, who are already considered two of the best Japanese fighters of all time. We’re working on one thing, and that’s winning. Nothing else matters to us.”

Outlasting Inoue is easier said than done, but if anyone could do it, it’s Nakatani, despite being a +300 betting underdog against the -400 favorite in Inoue.

“This isn’t a 50-50 fight. It’s a 51-49 fight in favor of Inoue, because he’s the No. 1 fighter in the world and has our respect as an all-time great. But just like everyone who’s made it to the top before, they eventually have to step aside, and on May 2, there will be a passing of the torch and changing of the guard.

“We see a couple of things that may work and have been drilling on that. It’s about what they actually do – that’s boxing. We’re going to work to be the best that we can be. Whatever Naoya Inoue brings, we’ll be ready.

“I’m confident that it’s going to be a great fight and we will be ready to perform. My fighters are always ready for anything that comes their way. We won’t be in trouble, no matter what Inoue brings to the table. There won’t be any excuses from our side. We’ve been working hard, just like Inoue is.”

Nakatani told The Ring that he believes he’ll outlast Inoue by decision in what he promises will be a war, and that his size and speed will reign supreme.

“If Junto says this fight is going to be a war, then that’s what it’s going to be. I guess he has it in his mind to do what’s necessary,” said Hernandez.

“We have a five-year age advantage in youth. I’m hoping that plays a part. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. We need all the help we can get, am I wrong? In the perfect world, the first punch Junto lands is square on the chin, and he knocks out Inoue. I’m not worried about the fight yet. Everything changes the night before.”

The perception around Nakatani’s chances also changed following his last fight in December against Sebastian Hernandez, outlasting him in a tougher-than-expected 122-pound debut.

Sebastian also served as a sparring partner for Inoue when he was preparing for a fight against Sam Goodman that eventually got cancelled 16 months ago.

“Junto had to dig deep to beat Sebastian,” said Rudy. “I can assure you that Inoue probably thought that Junto did a lot better in the fight than Naoya did in sparring. Why would Inoue send Sebastian home after one sparring session? I have an imagination and a third eye. I’ve been in boxing too many years not to know a thing or two.

“The toughest challenge we’re going to have to overcome is Inoue’s speed. He has great speed and great eyes. Wherever he looks, he hits. That’s what makes him great. We can’t have Junto block punches with his face

“Inoue is not like a Julian Jackson who will knock you out with one punch. He’s strong and it’s an accumulation of punches that gets guys out of there.”

Just as Nakatani showed vulnerability, Inoue has as well.

Almost one year ago to the date, Inoue was dropped in the early rounds with a counter left hook by Ramon Cardenas. It was the same punch Luis Nery knocked down Inoue with in May 2024.

And both times, Inoue showed his magical recuperative powers and warrior spirit to get off the canvas and score a crushing stoppage win.

Can history repeat itself a third year in a row, but ultimately lead to a different result?

“There is no doubt in our minds that we will win. Whatever it takes,” said Hernandez. “I believe Junto’s right hand is as dangerous as his left. We’re working on preparing different versions of Junto. If he needs to fight orthodox, he knows how to and will be ready. He can be a switch-hitter if he wants to. We’re ready to throw everything and the kitchen sink.

“This is going to be a very complicated fight and the hardest to date of Junto’s career. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that we’re the better fighter and leave no doubt with a convincing win.”

Manouk Akopyan is The Ring’s lead writer. Follow him on X and Instagram: @ManoukAkopyan