The World Boxing Organization has awarded Japanese boxing star Inoue Naoya the status of bantamweight super champion in its latest rankings.

Inoue became the first undisputed bantamweight world champion to hold all four major titles by beating Paul Butler of Britain on December 13. Inoue floored his opponent in the 11th round.

The WBO awards the status of super champion when a WBO champion meets criteria such as defending the title a minimum of 10 title bouts, or in the event of less than 10, defending his or her title against opponents of high recognition and high skills.

A super champion will be given priority for a title shot to challenge a WBO champion after switching to another class.

Inoue has expressed his intention to move up to the super bantamweight class next year.