Jesse Rodriguez: "I don’t see anybody beating me anytime soon"
Undefeated San Antonio fighter puts boxing world on notice with stunning victory over Srisaket Sor Rungvisai
Jesse Rodriguez made a bold statement to the boxing world on Saturday night, dominating former two-time world champion Srisaket Sor Rungvisai over eight rounds to retain his WBC super flyweight title.
The 23-year-old Rodriguez, who is now 17-0 with 11 knockouts, was in control of the fight from the opening bell, using his superior speed and footwork to outbox the hard-hitting Rungvisai.
Rodriguez dropped Rungvisai in the second round with a left hook, and while the Thai veteran managed to beat the count, he was never able to get into the fight.
"I'm the best super flyweight in the world"
After the fight, Rodriguez said he was confident he would beat Rungvisai, but he was still surprised by how easy the fight was.
"I knew I was going to win, but I didn't think it would be that easy," Rodriguez said. "I felt like I was in control the whole fight. I was just too fast and too strong for him."
Rodriguez's victory over Rungvisai is a major upset, as Rungvisai was considered one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world.
But Rodriguez said he is now ready to take on anyone in the super flyweight division.
"I'm the best super flyweight in the world," Rodriguez said. "I don't see anybody beating me anytime soon."
What's next for Rodriguez?
It remains to be seen who Rodriguez will fight next, but there are a number of intriguing options for the young champion.
One possibility is a unification fight with Juan Francisco Estrada, who is the WBA and Ring Magazine super flyweight champion.
Another possibility is a rematch with Rungvisai. The Thai veteran is sure to be hungry for revenge, and a rematch would likely be a blockbuster event.
No matter who Rodriguez fights next, he is sure to be a major force in the super flyweight division for years to come.
Donaire interested in Rodriguez fight
In the aftermath of Rodriguez's victory over Rungvisai, four-division world champion Nonito Donaire expressed interest in a fight with the young champion.
Donaire, who is now a free agent, said he would be willing to move down to super flyweight to challenge Rodriguez.
"I think that would be a great fight," Donaire said. "He's a young, hungry fighter, and I'm a veteran who has been in the game for a long time.
“I think it would be a very competitive fight, and I think I would have a good chance of winning.”
Conclusion
Jesse Rodriguez is a rising star in the boxing world, and his victory over Srisaket Sor Rungvisai is a sign that he is ready to take on the best in the super flyweight division.
It remains to be seen who Rodriguez will fight next, but there are a number of intriguing options for the young champion.
One thing is for sure, Rodriguez is a fighter to watch, and he is sure to be a major force in the super flyweight division for years to come.
