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“I’m not waiting”: Naoya Inoue vs ‘Bam’ Rodriguez mega fight thrown into doubt

As 2027 approaches, one of the most in-demand fights in the sport is an undisputed super-bantamweight title showdown between pound-for-pound king Naoya Inoue and three-weight world champion Jesse Rodriguez, but it now appears as though the proposed event is in…

Published: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 6:03 PM
“I’m not waiting”: Naoya Inoue vs ‘Bam’ Rodriguez mega fight thrown into doubt
Key Things to Know
  • A potential super-fight between Naoya Inoue and Jesse Rodriguez is in doubt after Inoue refused to wait.
  • Inoue announced he is preparing for a move up to featherweight instead of waiting for Rodriguez.
  • Rodriguez's trainer Robert Garcia wants another 118-pound fight before stepping up to challenge Inoue.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Naoya Inoue announced on social media that he will not wait around for Jesse Rodriguez and has begun preparing for a move up to featherweight instead. The undisputed super-bantamweight champion is targeting a ring return in spring 2027, but negotiations appear stalled because Rodriguez's team prefers another bout at bantamweight first.

Rodriguez's trainer Robert Garcia previously suggested an April or May date, prompting Inoue's decision to explore options at 126 pounds against champions such as Bruce Carrington or Angelo Leo. However, Rodriguez's promoter Eddie Hearn responded publicly stating they remain ready to make the mega fight happen.

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