Juan Francisco Estrada Forgoes Bam Rodriguez Rematch, Moves Up To Bantamweight

Juan Francisco Estrada Forgoes Bam Rodriguez Rematch, Moves Up To Bantamweight

In a surprising development, Mexican boxing legend Juan Francisco Estrada (44-4, 28 KOs) has decided to forgo a highly anticipated rematch with Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez (20-0, 13 KOs). According to ESPN’s Salvador Rodriguez, Estrada has opted not to exercise the contractual rematch clause stemming from their June 29 bout, instead choosing to move up in weight to the bantamweight division in pursuit of a third world title.

The original fight between Estrada and Rodriguez was a thrilling contest that ended dramatically in the seventh round, when Rodriguez delivered a stunning knockout to claim Estrada’s WBC Super Flyweight Championship. The fight, held in front of an electric crowd, saw Bam Rodriguez cement his status as one of boxing’s rising stars, as he took down one of the sport’s most revered figures.

Estrada, who has enjoyed a storied career spanning multiple divisions, was expected to exercise his rematch clause, with plans reportedly underway to stage a rematch in December. However, in a twist of events, the 34-year-old former champion had a change of heart, deciding to shift his focus to the bantamweight division. This move will allow Estrada to pursue the historic goal of becoming a three-division world champion, adding to his already impressive legacy.

Estrada is a two-weight world champion, having held the WBC super flyweight title since 2022 and The Ring super flyweight title since 2019. His accolades also include reigns as the WBA (Unified) and WBO flyweight champion between 2012 and 2015. Estrada briefly regained the WBC super flyweight title in 2021 and held the WBA (Super) title from March 2021 until August 2022.