Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez made it clear that collecting routine defenses is no longer enough motivation as he prepares to challenge Antonio Vargas for the WBA bantamweight title on June 13 in Glendale, Arizona
Rodriguez (23-0, 16 KOs), already one of boxing’s most accomplished young champions, will move up in weight to face Vargas (19-1-1, 11 KOs) in a bid to become a three-division world champion. While many view Rodriguez as the favorite, he said the bigger attraction was the challenge itself.
“The title defense wouldn’t have excited me as much as this fight does. Moving up to another division, trying to conquer another world title against a fighter like Antonio Vargas will push me that much more inside the gym and make me go out there and perform a lot better come fight night,” Rodriguez said at the press conference.
The comments offer a glimpse into Rodriguez’s mindset at 26. He already holds major titles at 115 pounds and has little left to prove in standard defenses. A move to bantamweight gives him a fresh target and another belt to chase.
Rodriguez also dismissed the idea that Vargas should be overlooked because he lacks a major profile.
“He’s a tough fighter. He has good speed, so I’m expecting a very tough fight. A lot of people are writing him off just because he doesn’t have a big name, but come June 13, I’m expecting a great fight,” said Bam Rodriguez.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has said Rodriguez could return to 115 pounds after the bout to pursue undisputed status, but first he must handle a dangerous opponent at 118.
Moving divisions can revive elite fighters. Rodriguez appears to know that staying hungry can be as important as staying unbeaten.
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Last Updated on 2026/04/24 at 4:43 PM
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