Puerto Rican Boxer Emmanuel "Manny" Rodriguez to Face Ryan Burnett
Puerto Rican boxer Emmanuel "Manny" Rodriguez (17-0, 12 KO) has been seeking a title fight for a long time. He is currently ranked #1 by the IBF and is the mandatory challenger for the World Bantamweight Champion Ryan Burnett (18-0, 9 KO).
Due to the inability of Fresh Promotions (Rodriguez's promoter) and Matchroom Boxing (Burnett's promoter) to reach an agreement, the fight will go to auction on February 12th at the central offices of the IBF in New Jersey.
Fresh Promotions President Juan Orengo hopes that his fighter will finally get the opportunity he desires, as they have made many offers that have all been rejected.
"It has been a tough road because it's incredible how the opponents that the IBF chooses for 'Manny' and who are ranked in the top positions decide not to face him. A multiple world champion like Omar Narvaez and his team rejected the fight, even when we agreed to fight in Argentina under their conditions.
"The next ranked boxer, Rodrigo Guerrero, also declined the fight, as did Lee Haskins. We told their representatives that Manny would fight under all their conditions, even in their own backyard. But now, with the notification sent by the IBF, Burnett cannot escape through the back door."
The Rodriguez vs. Burnett fight could take place as part of the Joshua vs. Parker undercard on March 31st at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, United Kingdom. If the fight takes place in the UK, Rodriguez will face many disadvantages as he will be fighting in enemy territory, but a victory would be a great opportunity for him to gain more recognition internationally.
Will Rodriguez be able to secure the long-awaited opportunity, or will he have to wait even longer?
Source: primerahora.com