Emmanuel Rodriguez Will Be Part of World Boxing Super Series

By Miguel Rivera

Emmanuel 'Manny' Rodriguez, who was crowned world champion last Saturday in London, is still in England to announce his participation in the World Boxing Super Series that will also feature the participation of the other current world champions at 118 pounds.

The Puerto Rican boxer secured his place in the tournament thanks to the fact that he defeated Paul Butler by unanimous decision to conquer the belt of the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

"There will be eight fighters. In the first round I have the power to choose a challenger that is ranked among the top 10. For the second round it would be against a forced champion and then a great final," Rodriguez explained to Carlos Gonzalez. "Whoever wins the tournament will keep all the belts, prize money and the Muhammad Ali Cup."

Ryan Burnett and Zolani Tete, the champions of the World Boxing Association (WBA) and the World Boxing Organization (WBO), respectively, are also slated to be a part of the World Boxing Super Series.

"We stayed in London for that. Tomorrow (today) we will meet all the world champions of 118 pounds for the official announcement. I will be fighting in September for sure, although I do not know against whom," Rodríguez said.

The World Boxing Super Series began last year, with tournaments at cruiserweight and super middleweight - which are about to finish up.

During Saturday's fight, Rodriguez dominated Butler without difficulty despite having suffered a bruise on his left hand.

"In the fifth it was inflamed. I do not know what punch it was, but it hurt a lot. I had to keep using that hand for the jab that was effective," Rodriguez said.

"It was not so serious although it hurt and I never stopped throwing punches. Maybe my corner wanted me to make another fight because as soon as I got the pain I informed him and they told me to be cautious."