By: Hans Themistode
Jesse Rodriguez believes that slow and steady is the right way to advance his career. However, the former flyweight contender saw the opportunity as too good to pass up.
With Srisaket Sor Rungisai forced to withdraw from the February 5th round due to illness, Rodriguez brazenly accepted a short-term opportunity against Carlos Cuadras for the vacated super flyweight title. Although the 22-year-old was initially surprised by the offer, he enthusiastically accepted. That’s why Rodriguez has made bets profitable as he continues to dominate the former champion.
After his win, Rodriguez appeared uncertain about his immediate future. While he would love to be branded as world champion, Rodriguez expressed a desire to return to flyweight. However, after pondering over his next move, Rodriguez has officially decided to retain his world title and continue his career as an official super fly. In his first defense of his newly won title, Rodriguez will take on the role of the man who lost his original opportunity.
On June 25, at Tech Port Arena in San Antonio, Rodriguez and Rungvisai will battle in the main event. Considering the rich background of the former many-time champion, Rodriguez is well aware of the dangers that Rungvisai brings. However, while he could be considered his toughest test yet, Rodriguez is struggling a bit.
“Fighting someone like Rungvisai will take me to the next level,” says Rodriguez. “He is a great fighter but this is my moment. You have to take risks in this sport, that’s what special boxers do. They said it was a risky challenge for me for a World Championship fight in a short time and now they say it is a risk for a fighter like Rungvisai but here it is. The thing i want. These are the types of fights you need to be remembered by your fans long after your career is over.”
Not surprisingly, Rungvisai joined Rodriguez in his excitement. Before being forced to withdraw from the match against Cuadras, Rungvisai was the winner of three consecutive matches, two of which came in injury time. In the end, the ultimate goal for Thai products is not only to once again dominate the super fly champion, but to forever put their name in the history books.
“I am very excited about this opportunity to fight for the WBC World title,” said Rungvisai. “I will do my best to win the WBC World belt and become the first three-time WBC World Champion in Thailand’s history. Thank you so much to Matchroom, DAZN and WBC for this opportunity. “
