In the high-stakes world of flyweight boxing, Jesse Rodriguez is ready to elevate his game in his upcoming title unification bout against IBF champion Sunny Edwards. Known for his calm demeanor, “Bam” Rodriguez is now promising a show-stopping performance against the British boxer this Saturday. “I’m going to knock him out,” Rodriguez asserts confidently, highlighting the significance of this encounter.
The 23-year-old Rodriguez is coming off a unanimous decision victory against Cristian Gonzalez Hernandez in April, a win that earned him the vacant WBO title. However, the victory was not without its challenges; Rodriguez suffered a fractured jaw that needed surgical intervention. Despite the injury, his determination remained unshaken. “My jaw feels good,” Rodriguez says, recounting the ordeal and his subsequent recovery that involved a diet of pudding, smoothies, and milkshakes.
In the ring, Rodriguez is known for his aggressive, action-oriented style, a sharp contrast to Edwards’ more technical and light-hitting approach. This stylistic clash is at the heart of their upcoming encounter. Currently, Rodriguez is the -215 betting favorite, with Edwards as the +165 underdog, according to DraftKings.
Edwards, aiming for his fifth title defense, won the 112-pound IBF title in 2021 by defeating Moruti Mthalane. His most recent victory came in March against Andres Campos. Despite Edwards' impressive track record, Rodriguez is unfazed and is motivated by a desire to be remembered as a boxing legend. “I want to be remembered as a fighter who never dodged a fight,” he states.
Image Credit: Matchroom Boxing