Last night in Phoenix, fight fans witnessed an electrifying showdown between Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Juan Francisco Estrada. Rodriguez, a rising star in the lower weight divisions, put on a masterful performance against the tough Mexican champion, becoming the first man to stop him. Despite facing adversity with a flash knockdown, Rodriguez rallied back to secure a stunning 7th round body shot stoppage win. Promoter Eddie Hearn hailed Rodriguez’s performance as “unquestionably” making him a pound-for-pound star, and many in the boxing community share this sentiment.
The Versatile Fighter
At just 20-0(13), Rodriguez has already showcased a diverse skill set that sets him apart from his competition. He possesses the ability to box effectively, deliver punishing blows, withstand adversity, and maintain a relentless pace throughout the fight. Rodriguez’s versatility in the ring makes him a formidable opponent for anyone in the lower weight classes.
Looking ahead, Rodriguez has a myriad of options awaiting him. A potential rematch with Estrada looms on the horizon, as the Mexican fighter had a clause in his contract for a second fight. While a second bout with Estrada is intriguing, Rodriguez has his sights set on bigger challenges. A dream matchup with Japanese superstar Naoya Inoue, the pound-for-pound No.1 for many, presents an enticing opportunity for Rodriguez to prove his mettle on the world stage.
Pound-for-Pound Contender
As Rodriguez continues to climb the ranks in the lower weight divisions, he poses a significant challenge to the current elite fighters in the sport. With the possibility of facing the winner of the upcoming fight between Kazuto Ioka and Fernando Martinez for a unification clash, Rodriguez could solidify his status as a dominant force in the 115-pound division. The experts will soon have to consider where to place Rodriguez in the prestigious pound-for-pound rankings, alongside the likes of Terence Crawford, Oleksandr Usyk, and Naoya Inoue.
As Rodriguez’s star continues to rise, the future looks bright for the young fighter. Whether he pursues a rematch with Estrada, a showdown with Inoue, or a unification bout in the 115-pound division, Rodriguez’s determination and skill will undoubtedly propel him to greater heights in the sport. With the support of his team and the boxing community behind him, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez is poised to become a household name in the world of boxing.