With featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski seemingly past his chapter with former champion Max Holloway, Rodriguez seems like the next logical challenger. “El Pantera,” along with Josh Emmett, are the only two top-5 featherweights to earn a win.
Not only is Rodriguez well placed, but the nature of his fight’s early end is that he suffered no real damage or injury – a rare turn of events for the all-action Mexican.
Where We Are: Featherweight Division | July 2022
“Normally I’m all screwed up, all cut up, broken nose, broken hand, broken feet and on crutches,” he said. “Right now, I’m just enjoying my time, especially I’m super happy after this fight. I’m just waiting for my chance.
Part of that fun was traveling to Dallas, TX to support compatriot Brandon Moreno in his interim flyweight title fight at UFC 277 against Kai Kara-France. Rodriguez expressed his passionate support for Moreno when “The Assassin Baby” ended things in the third round with a kick to the body that would make Rodriguez blush.
Also in town that week was Volkanovski himself, supporting Kara-France.