Jesse Rodriguez Tells Sunny Edwards to Expect a Knockout
Reigning WBO flyweight champion Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez (18-0, 11 KOs) is less than two weeks away from the biggest fight of his career to date, a December 16 unification battle with current IBF 112-pound champion Sunny “Showtime” Edwards (20-0, 4 KOs). Rodriguez believes he can stop Edwards and prove that he’s the best fighter in the division.
The two fighters participated in the Matchroom Boxing special, Face Off. Edwards made a point to note what he perceives to be the inexperience of his upcoming opponent. But the 23-year-old WBO champion said he will not be overwhelmed by the magnitude of the match.
“I’m built for these kinds of things mentally, physically. I’ve always been ready for these kinds of moments. So on December 16, I will be more than ready.”
UNDERSTANDING THE TASK AT HAND
Edwards is known for his ability to frustrate fighters with his movement, fast boxing skills, and defense. When asked to assess the IBF champion, Rodriguez believes that Edwards doesn’t get the respect he deserves. The WBO champion understands that it may not be an easy fight but feels he has the physical tools and the mental fortitude to deal with the slick Edwards.
“I feel like they’re underestimating him a bit just because maybe his lack of power. But the IQ he has makes up for that lack of power. . . people can say what they want, but I know what I’m up against.”
Throughout his career, Rodriguez has fought with a maturity that belies his age. He always has the face of composure. Nothing ever seems to bother him. That relaxation and well-rounded fighting ability have made him a two-division world champion.
But heading into this contest, there’s a bit of an unknown factor regarding Bam. In his last outing, Rodriguez suffered a broken jaw in a victory over Christian Hernandez Gonzalez in April 2023. Rodriguez insists that he’s fully healed and one hundred percent.
Bam must be at his best if he’s going to win. But the pride of San Antonio, Texas feels this is his time. He’s ready to make an even greater imprint on the sport. Looking directly into Edward’s eyes, he made a bold prediction:
“I’m going to knock you out. You’re not going the distance.”
