Bam Rodriguez vs Edwards – DAZN – Dec. 16 – 9 pm ET

Matchroom has pulled a rabbit out of the hat, announcing four electric events slated for the latter half of 2023 across the USA and Mexico. Every punch, jab, and knockout will be broadcast live on DAZN for the world to witness.

Arguably, the pièce de résistance of these announcements is the Flyweight unification bout – a showdown between the impeccable Jesse Rodriguez and the formidable Sunny Edwards. This epic clash is all set to ignite the ring at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, come Saturday, December 16. It’s a date all boxing purists have circled in red.

Let’s break down the contenders a bit, shall we?

Rodriguez, the WBO champion, and Edwards, the IBF titleholder, are both stepping into the squared circle undefeated. They’re risking it all – their records, their titles, and their reputations. It’s the kind of fight that separates the contenders from the pretenders, with both pugilists putting their titles on the line for the very first time in a unification bout.

Jesse “The Lethal” Rodriguez, boasting an 18-0 record, catapulted into limelight back in February 2022, clinching the World title right in Arizona. He’s been on a tear since, defending his title with tactical precision and raw power. On facing Edwards, Rodriguez commented, “This bout is my canvas to showcase that I am not just the top Flyweight but a boxer to be reckoned with on the global stage. Arizona, where my world champion journey started, will witness fireworks come December 16.”

Sunny “The Maestro” Edwards, with an equally intimidating 20-0 record, has been chomping at the bit for a mega-fight since seizing the IBF crown in 2021. Known for his slick footwork and razor-sharp combinations, Edwards exclaimed, “This clash is what boxing folklore is made of – the true #1 against the genuine #2. I’m prepping every jab, hook, and uppercut to etch my name in boxing history on December 16.”

Jesse Rodriguez (18-0 11 KOs):

“I’ve always been ready for any fight. Unifying titles is a dream for any boxer, and December 16 will be memorable.

“Sunny and I are distinct individuals. He’s vocal about his confidence, while mine shines in the ring. During my last fight, even after a broken jaw, I fought on for six rounds. That’s the confidence I carry. I’ve watched Sunny, and he’s good, but I don’t believe he has ever met someone with my skill set and determination.

“This fight on December 16 is monumental for my career. The talk around it indicates the excitement and anticipation. My supporters from San Antonio will be present, making it feel like a hometown fight for me.

“Victory doesn’t necessarily mean causing harm. It’s about outperforming the opponent. Come December 16, I will showcase my strategy and bring that belt back to San Antonio.”

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHKi_F0aByk

Sunny Edwards (20-0 4 KOs):

“Thanks to Eddie, DAZN, Bam’s team, Robert Garcia, and Mr Honda. This fight has been in my sights even before Bam emerged as my opponent. Jesse’s talent is evident, and this might not be our last encounter.

“The anticipation for this event is huge. Being at this stage, it’s a dream come true.

“The real challenge excites me. I’m already training hard in Tenerife, preparing for the fight. Concerns about whether this fight is right never crossed my mind. With Eddie, I was clear about my preferences and expectations. This is a significant fight I’ve wanted, and it’s happening now.

“Details like gloves, ring size aren’t my focus. I appreciate Jesse’s authenticity in this sport. Our strategies might differ, but it doesn’t mean I need an edge. In my eyes, overcoming a young 23-year-old fighter like Jesse is the challenge.

“I’ve faced fighters at Jesse’s caliber. When we fight on December 16, it won’t be about mind games, but skills. Every day, the excitement grows.

“Some believe cutting the ring off is the strategy against me. But my approach is adaptive, responding to the fight’s rhythm. While I may not be known for KOs, my track record speaks volumes. The challenge is not only to defeat me but to maintain consistent success against my style.

“People questioning my power haven’t seen my full potential. My primary objective in the ring is to ensure victory. Bam may be a powerful puncher, but strategy plays a crucial role in a fight’s outcome.

“Many champions, like Devin Haneys and Shakur Stevensons, prioritize strategy over sheer power. A young Bam might enter the ring trying to make a statement. But understanding and breaking my defense will be a task for him.

“I view myself as a puzzle in the ring. My years of dedication and unseen hard work have equipped me to face any opponent. Being in the ring feels like home to me.

“This fight promises to be a spectacle. I eagerly await December 16, confident of emerging victorious”

Murodjon Akhmadaliev:

I agree with you, Eddie. I’m convinced that I emerged victorious in my last fight. Despite a slow start, I dominated from the fifth round onwards. Nonetheless, my focus is now on my current opponent, who is the strongest among the contenders. I am fully committed to reclaiming what I rightfully deserve.

Kevin Gonzalez:

This fight presents a significant challenge, but I am confident in my ability to succeed. My attention is solely on MJ at the moment. However, a victory here opens the door to potentially facing the winner of the Inoue vs. Tapales fight. This bout is a crucial step in my journey, and I am thoroughly prepared for it.

Galal Yafai:

Being part of this major event alongside Sunny and Bam is exciting. I anticipate future opportunities to compete against them. However, my current focus is entirely on securing a victory against Rocco this Saturday. It’s important to not just win, but to perform impressively. I aim to excel in the ring and then enjoy watching the main event.

My amateur career wasn’t typical; I was aggressive and successful, even in the Olympic finals, which is uncommon for a Flyweight. I prefer to let my performance in the ring speak for itself, and I look forward to showing what I can do this Saturday.

Akhmadaliev vs. Gonzalez: The Showdown for the WBA World Super-Bantamweight Title

Murodjon Akhmadaliev prepares to clash with Kevin Gonzalez in an eliminator for the WBA World Super-Bantamweight title. This sizzling event takes center stage as the chief support to the Flyweight unification bout between Jesse Rodriguez and Sunny Edwards at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, on December 16. And yes, it’s airing live worldwide on DAZN.

Akhmadaliev, the former unified king (sporting a record of 11-1 with 8 KOs), is on a mission to reclaim his throne. After relinquishing the crown and IBF strap to Marlon Tapales in April, via a majority decision loss, our Uzbek star is not just licking his wounds. He’s plotting a grand comeback, aiming to snatch back one of his old titles early in 2024, starting with a victory here. Remember, he’s the guy who snatched the belts from Daniel Roman in 2020 and defended them thrice before Tapales turned the tables.

Enter Gonzalez (26-0-1, 13 KOs), the Mexican sensation ranked #2 in the WBA, right behind Akhmadaliev. Last seen defeating Jose Sanmartin in Las Vegas, Gonzalez is not just riding a winning streak; he’s surfing it. He’s already bested Emanuel Rivera Nieves in California and is now gearing up for the most important fight of his career, stretching over 12 rounds for the first time.

Akhmadaliev, with the stoicism of a seasoned warrior, said, “I am excited to return to the ring. No matter what happened last time, my goal is to fight for justice and reclaim what’s mine.” Meanwhile, Gonzalez, bubbling with optimism, remarked, “This is the toughest, yet most exciting fight of my life. Akhmadaliev might be tough, but I’m ready to show the world that Mexico has a great product. Failure? Not an option. I’m ready for a war.”

While these two gladiators gear up for their big night, the main event features the unbeaten British World ruler Edwards, and a fleet of British talent is tagging along. Among them is Galal Yafai, defending his WBC International Flyweight title against Rocco Santomauro. Yafai (5-0, 4 KOs), an Olympic gold medalist, is all set to dazzle fans and then join them to watch the main event.

Peter McGrail is also making waves, fighting in the States for the first time as a pro and aiming for the WBA Continental Super-Bantamweight belt against Ja’Rico O’Quinn. McGrail (8-0, 5 KOs), with a string of amateur titles under his belt, is ready to give the US fans a taste of his fighting style.

And let’s not forget the family affair with Joe McGrail (7-0, 3 KOs) facing Brandon Rosales Marquez in the Featherweight division, and Junaid Boston (7-0, 6 KOs) taking on Gordie Russ II in the Super-Welterweight bout.

Rounding off this packed card are Arturo Popoca and Albert Gonzalez, set to battle it out in their respective divisions.

Rodriguez vs. Edwards Fight – Everything You Need to Know!

Q: When is the Rodriguez vs. Edwards fight happening? A: Gear up for an exciting night! The fight takes place on Saturday, December 16. The action starts at 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. UK (Sunday), with the main event ringwalks anticipated around 11 p.m. ET / 4 a.m. UK (Sunday). Keep in mind, these times may shift depending on the undercard fights.

Q: Can I stream Rodriguez vs. Edwards on DAZN? A: Absolutely! The fight will be streamed live on DAZN in over 200 countries. Just sign up for a subscription here. If you’re in Argentina, Chile, or Colombia, remember to download the DAZN app and sign up through it instead of a web browser.

Q: What devices support DAZN? A: DAZN is super accessible! It’s available on web browsers (excluding Argentina, Chile, and Colombia) and a variety of devices:

• Mobile: iPhone, iPad, Android phones and tablets, Amazon Fire tablet
• TV & Streaming: Amazon Fire TV Stick, Android TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Hisense, LG Smart TV, Smartcast, Panasonic, Samsung & Sony Smart TV, Philips, Roku, Vestel, Vizio
• Game Consoles: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X | S

Q: Where will the fight be held? A: The Rodriguez vs. Edwards fight is set to happen at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona. A great venue for an unforgettable night!

Q: What are the odds for Rodriguez vs. Edwards? A: As of December 11, the odds from DraftKings are:

• Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez: -210
• Sunny Edwards: +165

Q: What are the fighter’s records and bios? A: Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez: American, Born Jan 20, 2000, 5′ 4″ tall, 67″ reach, 18 fights, 18-0 record (11 KOs).
• Sunny Edwards: British, Born Jan 1, 1996, 5′ 3″ tall, 60″ reach, 20 fights, 20-0 record (4 KOs).

Q: What does the full fight card look like? A: Alongside the main event, the card includes:

First bell 3.15pm MT LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL ON DAZN AND MATCHROOM’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL

6 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
JOE MCGRAIL (125.8lbs)            vs.        EDGAR ORTIZ JR. (123lbs)
Liverpool, England                                Phoenix, Arizona

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Featherweight contest
ALBERT GONZALEZ (127.2lbs)    vs.        ALEXIS MOLINA (126.2lbs)
Perris, California                                   Guadalajara, Mexico

Followed by

8 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
JUNAID BOSTAN (155.2lbs)        vs.        GORDIE RUSS II (155.2lbs)
Rotherham, England                             Detroit, Michigan

Followed by

8 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
ARTURO CARDENAS (123.4lbs)  vs.        CARLOS MUJICA (122lbs)
Michoacán, Mexico                               Las Vegas, Nevada

LIVE ON DAZN FROM 6PM MT

10 x 3 mins WBA Continental Super-Bantamweight title
PETER MCGRAIL (121.6lbs)        vs.        JA’RICO O’QUINN (122lbs)
Liverpool, England                                Detroit, Michigan

Followed by

10 x 3 mins WBC International Flyweight contest
GALAL YAFAI (111.8lbs)             vs.        ROCCO SANTOMAURO (111.4lbs)
Birmingham, England                            Apple Valley, California

Followed by

12 x 3 Eliminator for the WBA World Super-Bantamweight title
MURODJON AKHMADALIEV (121.6lbs)   vs.        KEVIN GONZALEZ (121lbs)
Chust, Uzbekistan                                 Culiacan, Mexico

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBO and IBF World Flyweight unification
JESSE RODRIGUEZ (111.6lbs)     vs.        SUNNY EDWARDS (111.6lbs)
San Antonio, Texas                                Croydon, England