By Alexey Sukachev
Salle des Étoiles, Monte Carlo - In his first bout with new trainer Joel Diaz, former WBO junior welterweight champion Ruslan "Siberian Rocky" Provodnikov (25-4, 18KOs) knocked out previously undefeated Jesus Rodriguez (14-1, 11KOs on Boxrec, announced as 20-1, 18KOs at the show).
It was Provodnikov's first bout since the twelve round majoirty decision loss to Lucas Matthysse in April.
The fight came as a late addition to the card, promoted by South African Rodney Berman, after previous headliner Juergen Braehmer had to withdraw due to injuries. Provodnikov, 31, unable to find a viable dance partner for his next affair, took advantage of the opportunity and travelled to the French side. His 23-year old opponent with an unclear but padded record, was brought there as a sacrificial lamb.
Trying to be calm and reserved the Siberian Rocky didn't get what he was hunting for, with Rodriguez being elusive and annoying with his jab in the first couple of rounds. Feeling something was missing, Provodnikov came back to his trademark style and did much better in the third.
In the fourth, a huge left hook shook Rodriguez and he almost went down. Referee Stanley Christodoulou almost stopped it at that point but somehow let it go when Rodriguez came back to his senses (no count was issued). Provodnikov was in his face once again, and after a heated exchange (where the Mexican landed a good looping shot) Rodirguez took a knee. He beat the count, but the Russian was there with an immediate follow up, finally pinning the Mexican to the ropes and unloading until Rodriguez nearly went through the ropes. At that point Christodoulou stepped in to wave it off.
