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What once seemed intended only for fantasy fighting debates can now become a reality for debate involving Naoya Inoue.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez has been one of boxing’s most notable success stories in recent years, starting with his stellar performance in just his 15th professional fight, when he dazzled Mexican warrior and then-world champion Carlos Cuadras.
Victories over Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, Juan Francisco Estrada, Sunny Edwards, Phumelela Cafu and Fernando Martinez not only delivered multiple world titles, but also secured Rodriguez a place in pound-for-pound lists across the sport.
The 25-year-old San Antonio native is now mulling his next move, not only in the ring but outside of it as well. As was recently reported, Rodriguez is a free agent after his contract with Matchroom expired.
Currently a three-belt world champion at super flyweight, Rodriguez could move up to bantamweight later this year, but his ambitions could stretch even further. His trainer, Robert Garcia, has already indicated that a long-term goal is a fight with undisputed super bantamweight champion Inoue.
After another successful defense of his undisputed crown on December 27, when he defeated David PicassoInoue was asked if he would be interested in facing Rodriguez. Speaking through a translator, the Japanese superstar said:
“When he is ready and if he can fight in the super-bantam class and if the timing is perfect, I would love to wait for him to challenge me.”
This prompted a brief but revealing answer from Coach Garcia.
“We’ll see him again soon.”
Despite the significant weight discrepancy, Rodriguez and his team appear willing to consider moving up from 115 pounds to 122 pounds to take on the powerful Inoue. In the meantime, a move up to 118 pounds to challenge Naoya’s brother, Takuma Inoue, for the WBC bantamweight title could provide an intriguing subplot – one that would only add more intrigue if Bam and the Monster eventually meet.
