What once appeared destined only for fantasy fight debates may yet become a reality for one involving Naoya Inoue.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez has been one of boxing’s standout success stories in recent years, beginning with his breakout performance in just his 15th professional fight, when he dazzled against Mexican warrior and then world champion Carlos Cuadras.
Victories over Srisaket Sor Rungvisai, Juan Francisco Estrada, Sunny Edwards, Phumelela Cafu and Fernando Martinez have 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 weighing up his next move — not only in the ring but outside it too. As it was recently reported Rodriguez is a free agent after his deal with Matchroom expired.
Currently a three-belt world champion at super-flyweight, Rodriguez could move up to bantamweight later this year, but his ambitions may stretch even further. His trainer, Robert Garcia, has already indicated that one long-term target is a fight with undisputed super-bantamweight champion Inoue.
Following another successful defence of his undisputed crown on December 27, when he beat David Picasso, Inoue was asked whether he would be interested in facing Rodriguez. Speaking through a translator, the Japanese superstar said:
“When he’s ready and if he can fight at super-bantam class and if timing is perfect, I’d love to wait for him to challenge me.”
That prompted a brief but telling response from trainer Garcia.
“We’ll see him soon.”
Despite the significant weight gap, Rodriguez and his team appear willing to consider a jump from 115lbs to 122lbs to take on the powerful Inoue. In the meantime, a move to 118lbs to challenge Naoya’s brother Takuma Inoue for the WBC bantamweight title could provide an intriguing subplot — one that would only add further intrigue should Bam and the Monster eventually meet.
