John Ramirez Awaits Title Shot as Bam Rodriguez Weighs Move UpJohn “Scrappy” Ramirez Waiting on Bam Rodriguez as Title Path Remains Unclear

LOS ANGELES — John Ramirez isn’t short on ambition—but his path to a world title may depend on decisions outside his control.

The WBA’s No. 1-ranked super flyweight contender is currently in a holding pattern as unified champion Jesse Rodriguez weighs a potential move up in weight. If “Bam” vacates his belts, Ramirez could finally get his long-awaited shot at gold.

“I Haven’t Fulfilled My Goal Yet”

Despite his rise in the rankings, Ramirez remains driven by unfinished business.

“I’ve had some unique experiences the last 5 years,” Ramirez said. “In my soul, I haven’t fulfilled my goal yet. I’m isolated and focused on that (winning a world title). I have had extra time to travel and train with friends like Regis Prograis in Texas to learn more and stay refreshed.”

The Los Angeles native has positioned himself as one of the top contenders in the division, but the championship picture remains crowded and uncertain.

Waiting on “Bam” Rodriguez

Rodriguez (23-0, 16 KOs) currently holds unified titles across the WBA, WBO, and WBC at super flyweight. However, speculation continues that he could move up to bantamweight for new challenges.

Reports have linked Rodriguez to a potential bout with Antonio Vargas in June, while also leaving the door open for a blockbuster fight against Japan’s pound-for-pound star Naoya Inoue.

That uncertainty has created a bottleneck for contenders like Ramirez.

Staying Ready Despite Uncertainty

Ramirez admits the waiting game isn’t easy—but he remains focused on development and staying active.

“I just need to continue trusting the process in boxing. As a fighter, I don’t like sitting around waiting for the pieces to move. We have a plan and it includes options. Regardless of the situation, I will continue to get better, and most importantly keep winning.”

At 29 years old, Ramirez is in his prime and determined not to let inactivity stall his momentum.

Limited Options at the Top

Even outside the WBA title picture, opportunities remain complicated.

IBF champion Wilbaldo Garcia Perez is currently tied to a scheduled defense, while other potential opponents are either unavailable or difficult to secure due to rankings and promotional dynamics.

A high-profile matchup with future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez has been floated, but activity concerns and timing make that fight uncertain.

Lessons From His Lone Defeat

Ramirez’s only professional loss came against David Jimenez in 2024 for the interim WBA title—a fight he openly acknowledges as a learning experience.

Since then, he has focused on growth, maturity, and preparation for the next opportunity.

“All of These Questions Will Be Answered in Time”

While the division sorts itself out, Ramirez is staying patient and disciplined.

“It’s not an easy task,” Ramirez admitted. “All of these questions will be answered in time. I can’t fight the unknown. I’ll keep training hard, eating right, and surrounding myself with good people.”

“I’m grateful to my promoter, Golden Boy Promotions, for giving me the right opportunities, as well as my manager (David Shu, 3 Point Management), who has gotten me the best fights available since I turned pro. And, of course, my trainer, Julian Chua… I see him every day and he’s sacrificed so much for me.”

What’s Next for Ramirez?

Ramirez last fought on January 16, earning a decision victory over Byron Rojas to maintain his position as a top contender.

For now, his future hinges on the next move from Rodriguez—and how the super flyweight division reshapes in the coming months.

But one thing is clear: when the opportunity comes, “Scrappy” plans to be ready.