This week marks two of the most anticipated events in the boxing world, with fans eagerly awaiting the clash between Juan Francisco Estrada and Jesse Rodriguez, and Teofimo Lopez's title defense against Steve Claggett.
In the first one, veteran Juan Francisco Estrada defends his WBC and The Ring super flyweight titles against the young and hungry Jesse Rodriguez at the Footprint Center in Arizona. Estrada, a 33-year-old seasoned pro who turned professional in 2008, has a storied career with titles in multiple weight classes. Known as "El Gallo," he stands tall at 5-8 and boasts an impressive eight-fight win streak since 2018. Estrada's last fight saw him triumph over Roman Gonzalez, solidifying his place as a dominant force in the super flyweight division.
"I’m very happy to announce my return against Bam Rodriguez. After my last victory against Chocolatito, we took a good break, spent quality time with my family, and healed an injury. I will be more than ready since I know Rodriguez is a dangerous fighter, but in June, it will be clear that there’s plenty of 'Gallo' excitement to come."
Rodriguez, a Junior World Championships silver medalist who turned pro in 2017, sees this fight as an opportunity to challenge his idol and prove his mettle.
"Fighting for my fourth world title against a legend like 'Gallo' is huge. This is a fight I’ve been wanting for a while, and I’m ready to prove myself once again."
Meanwhile, Teofimo Lopez continues his impressive run at super lightweight as he defends his WBO and Ring 140-pound belts against Steve Claggett. Lopez, known as "The Takeover," is a former unified lightweight champion who shocked the world by dethroning Vasiliy Lomachenko in 2020. After losing his belts to George Kambosos Jr., Lopez moved up in weight and has been on a winning streak, including a notable victory over Josh Taylor. Lopez aims to maintain his momentum and start 2024 with a perfect 2-0 record.
For Steve Claggett, this fight represents a Cinderella story. The 34-year-old Canadian, a former NABF super lightweight champion, is on a nine-fight win streak since 2021 and is competing for world title gold for the first time.
"This is like a Rocky Balboa story for Steve Claggett. I'm very much looking forward to what kind of style I'm going to see. There were no other fighters interested in fighting me, and I felt like he would give not just me, but the fans as well, a great fight to watch."
Claggett, brimming with determination, stated:
"I have worked my entire life for this opportunity and I intend to make the most of it. I am more motivated than ever before, and I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got."
Image Credit: ESPN