Being trapped in a ring with Naoya Inoue of Japan is more akin to a nightmare than a dream for the majority, whether they are fighters or fans. After all, he is famously referred to as “Monster” and has earned this title through his impressive record of finishing 24 out of his 27 professional fights in devastating fashion, all within a span of 12 years.
However, despite the fear that Inoue instills in everyone he encounters, there is a man named Jesse Rodriguez who defies this instinct. Instead of running away from the threat, Rodriguez is determined to face Inoue head-on. He not only asserts that he has no fear of Inoue, but he even dreams of fighting him in Tokyo, Japan.
“Inoue is a dream fight,” Rodriguez told Boxing News. “That’s a fight I have been asking about for a couple of years now. Every time they ask me to name my dream fight I say it would be against him in Japan.”
Naoya Inoue
In order for this scenario to occur, a couple of factors must align. Firstly, Rodriguez must defeat Juan Francisco Estrada and claim the WBC super-flyweight belt in their upcoming match on June 29 in Phoenix. Subsequently, Rodriguez would need to establish his dominance in the 115-pound division and potentially secure a bout against the victor of the WBA and IBF title clash between Kazuto Ioka and Fernando Martinez on July 7.
Rodriguez expressed, “The fight is highly competitive, but I believe Ioka will come out on top. If given the opportunity, I would definitely be interested in facing either Ioka or Martinez in the future.”
My sole desire is to engage in the most thrilling battles imaginable. If Ioka happens to be standing in my path, then let’s arrange for it to take place. Additionally, I have a deep affection for Tokyo, so let’s make it occur there as well.
“Simply being in Japan gives me the comforting feeling of being at home—a second home, if you will.”
Rodriguez’s abundance of appealing options is a testament to his rapid progress and determination to embrace the most rewarding challenges. At only 24 years old, he possesses the potential to establish a legacy that rivals the greatest fighters in the lower weight divisions. With just three or four more fights, his plan could materialize into a remarkable achievement.
Rodriguez, with a record of 19-0 (12), mentioned that he currently has a scheduled fight against Estrada on June 29. Additionally, he revealed that there is a rematch clause with Estrada, making it possible for a second fight between them. Rodriguez expressed his desire to then face the winner of the Martinez versus Ioka fight. This plan is what he considers ideal for his career. However, if he needs to participate in another fight to become undisputed, he is open to it and has no objections.
Seemingly, if his actions and his words offer a true reflection of his mind, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez has no problems doing anything. Yes, even fighting Naoya Inoue in Tokyo, Japan.
