Naoya Inoue vs Bam Rodriguez: Shakur Stevenson makes his pick

Naoya Inoue vs Jesse Bam Rodriguez is a fight that looks increasingly likely to happen, should Bam defeat Antonio Vargas on June 13 to win the WBA bantamweight world title. Despite the weight difference, it looks like Bam feels confident he can step up and tackle the undisputed champion at 122 pounds. Shakur Stevenson, the WBO and Ring Magazine champion at super lightweight, recently spoke to Matchroom Boxing, revealing his pick for the fight.

Naoya Inoue vs Bam Rodriguez

Mike Coppinger recently reported that Turki Alalshikh is targeting a “super fight” between Inoue (33-0, 27 KOs) and Bam (23-0, 16 KOs). Should the fight be made, they will meet for Inoue’s undisputed crown at 122 pounds. A special-edition Ring Magazine belt will be designed for the superfight.

Bam will need to handle his business on June 13 against Antonio Vargas, before moving up again to face Inoue. Bam’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, recently spoke on a potential Inoue-Bam fight, and said: “He’s got a fight against Vargas, who’s a very good fighter. It’s not going to be easy, but come through that, let’s just make it happen.”

Shakur Stevenson makes his pick for Inoue vs Bam

Bam was last seen in action, dominating and stopping Fernando Martinez to win the WBA super flyweight title. It was arguably a career-best performance from Rodriguez.

Last time out, Inoue delivered a disciplined performance, defeating Junto Nakatani by unanimous decision.

Speaking to Matchroom, Stevenson delivered his bold take on the potential Inoue-Bam fight:

“I like Bam, I can’t go against Bam. I know Bam. Bam’s my guy. I think Inoue is a great fighter, but I think Bam might be his kryptonite.

“I’ve seen him get dropped by a southpaw, and I think Bam punches hard enough where he can drop him, too.”

Featured Image Credit:

Naoki Fukuda photo