On June 13, at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, Jesse Bam Rodriguez defeated Antonio Vargas to win the WBA bantamweight title. The event was a Matchroom Boxing promotion, in association with Boxlab Promotions, live on DAZN. During the post-fight press conference, Bam spoke honestly about a potential showdown with Naoya Inoue.
Bam Rodriguez defeats Antonio Vargas
Vargas (19-2-1, 11 KOs) started the fight well, putting his punches together impressively, making it difficult for Bam Rodriguez (24-0, 17 KOs). Bam did settle better in the second round, creating angles, which seemed to trouble Vargas.
The champion continued to pose questions to Bam, with his approach and slick combination punching, but Bam began to get on top in round five, knocking down Vargas with a sharp left hand, who did well to beat the count and hear the bell.
During the sixth round, Bam landed a beautiful left hand, knocking Vargas down heavily. He tried to beat the count but instead rolled over onto his back, and that was all she wrote. Bam’s ability to adjust during this fight was most impressive, and what a knockout! Jesse Bam Rodriguez is the new WBA bantamweight champion and a three-division world champion.
Bam Rodriguez discusses Naoya Inoue
When asked in the post-fight presser about a potential Inoue fight, Rodriguez said: “I think so. I feel like I’m capable of beating anybody that the team puts in front of me. Money’s very important, but legacy is also important as well. I feel like I can’t retire without fighting Inoue, so I need to get that fight before I do retire, and of course beat him, and make the money, and enjoy it with my family.”
A potential Naoya Inoue vs Bam Rodriguez showdown is a fascinating prospect for all boxing fans. One interesting point is Bam’s admission after the fight that he was surprised by Vargas’s power. Inoue will punch a lot harder, so is one more fight at bantamweight the best option, before moving up to face the Monster? Bam vs Takuma Inoue?
Featured Image Credit:
Melina Pizano/Matchroom