Weight Class Difference a Hurdle
Promoter Eddie Hearn has described a potential match between Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez and Naoya Inoue as a “fantasy fight,” emphasizing the significant weight class differences that make this bout unlikely. Bam Rodriguez, currently undefeated with a 20-0 record and 13 knockouts, would need to take a considerable risk by moving up to super bantamweight [122], while Inoue would likely have already moved up to featherweight [126].
Bam Rodriguez’s Size Advantage
Hearn pointed out that Rodriguez has the physicality to move up to 122 pounds right now. In his recent fight against WBC super flyweight champion Juan Francisco Estrada at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, Rodriguez appeared more like a featherweight. He showcased his power by stopping Estrada in the seventh round with a devastating body shot.
Estrada’s Rematch Clause
The 34-year-old Estrada, with a record of 44-4 and 28 knockouts, has a rematch clause that he might invoke. Hearn believes that Rodriguez should settle this rematch before considering a move up in weight to pursue a mega-fight with Inoue. “If Bam wants to fight Inoue, the smart thing would be to get the rematch out of the way with Estrada and then move up to 122 to try and get the mega-fight with the Japanese star,” Hearn stated.
Potential Path to Inoue Fight
Hearn elaborated on Rodriguez’s potential career trajectory, saying, “Jesse vs. Inoue is a fantasy fight. It’s also an incredible fight. You’re talking about a guy [Bam Rodriguez] who has come up from light flyweight. He’s currently at super flyweight, and he’ll definitely go to bantam. I’m sure he’ll go to super bantamweight in time, but they’ll probably end up missing each other. But who knows? If Inoue stays at 122 for the next couple of years, Jesse will meet him there.”
The Risk of Moving Up Now
Hearn highlighted the significant leap in competition Rodriguez would face by moving up now. Despite his youth and strength, making such a jump requires courage and strategic planning. “At least if Bam fought Inoue now, it would be a big fight in Japan and the U.S. It would be courageous of Bam to make the move now rather than in two to four years,” Hearn added.
Estrada’s Struggle at 115
Reflecting on the recent fight, Hearn noted that Estrada appeared thin and emaciated, indicating that 115 pounds is no longer a suitable weight class for him. “He needs to move up to bantamweight or super bantamweight [118 or 122] to make life easier for himself,” Hearn suggested.
A Stunning Finish
The bout between Rodriguez and Estrada was marked by dramatic shifts in momentum. “I felt Bam dominated the first part of the fight, but then Estrada came back with the knockdown in round six and turned the fight on its head,” Hearn recalled. “Estrada was in the fight, but then all of a sudden, the body shot was absolutely perfectly placed. He couldn’t get up, couldn’t breathe.”
Competitive Fight and Wild Scorecards
The fight’s competitive nature was reflected in the wild scorecards, which Hearn found controversial. “I don’t agree with [the scorecards], but it shows you how competitive and dramatic the fight was. I would have actually liked to have seen the fight go down the stretch, but maybe we’ll see that next time,” Hearn remarked.
Looking Ahead: Bam’s Next Moves
For Rodriguez, the path forward involves tough decisions. Should he face Estrada in a rematch or take the bold step to challenge Inoue? Either way, the boxing world is eagerly watching. “Estrada fought well at times, but he wasn’t consistent enough to succeed against the bigger, stronger, and younger Bam Rodriguez,” Hearn concluded.
The Boxing World Awaits
The potential clash between Rodriguez and Inoue remains a tantalizing possibility. Fans can only hope that circumstances align to bring these two warriors into the ring. Until then, the anticipation continues to build, with each fighter’s career progression watched closely by the boxing community.
