Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez Believes He’s On His Way To Becoming A Pound For Pound Fighter 

Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez’s career seemed to be going according to plan. Through 14 professional fights, his record remained impeccable. As he continued to climb the flyweight rankings, the San Antonio native knew full well that a world title shot was coming his way. However, while he would indeed get his first shot at him with a golden trinket in their next fight, he would be forced to move up in weight.

Despite drawing dubious looks, Rodriguez (16-0, 11 KOs) easily dismantled Carlos Cuadras earlier this year, seizing the WBC super flyweight title in the process. For an encore, Rodríguez faced another top contender. This time, in the form of the previous belt holder, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai.

An enthusiastic Rodriguez made quick work of his man, stopping him in the eighth round. With back-to-back victories over an elite 118-pound pair, Rodriguez believes his name is starting to gain worldwide recognition.

“For me, every fighter wants to be on the pound-for-pound list,” Rodriguez told 210 BoxingTv. “For me, achieving that would be a great dream come true. I think I’m on my way to doing it.”

In an effort to solidify his place among the best of the best, Rodriguez will try to take down his next opponent, Israel Gonzalez. The two will officially square off in the main event on September 17 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Though billed as a sizable underdog, Gonzalez (28-4-1, 11 KOs) has shown himself to be durable, if nothing else. With only one stoppage loss on his record, Gonzalez has pushed several notable names to the limit, including former multi-division champion Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez.

Having done his homework, Rodriguez admits that his next opponent should be commended for his heart and courage. Regardless of his conspicuous granite chin, however, Rodriguez is overwhelmingly confident in his ability to deliver an excruciating beating on Gonzalez that night.

“I know he is a tough fighter,” Rodriguez said of Gonzalez. “He took Chocolatito all 12 rounds, but I’m at the top of my game right now. I am safer than ever. I think I’ll be able to make a statement and get him out of there early.”