Esteban Rodriguez achieved a significant victory at BKFC 88, securing the interim cruiserweight world title by defeating Chris Camozzi.
Rodriguez began the fight aggressively, aiming for a swift knockout against the former UFC fighter. However, this strategy led to considerable fatigue as the bout progressed, allowing Camozzi to gain momentum in the second round.
In the third round, a brief pause occurred when Camozzi delivered what initially appeared to be an illegal strike while holding Rodriguez in a headlock. Following review, the punch was deemed legal, and the fight resumed. Camozzi continued to dominate on the scorecards.
With less than 30 seconds remaining in the penultimate round, Camozzi was controlling the fight, targeting Rodriguez’s body. Despite this, a well-timed uppercut from Rodriguez visibly dazed Camozzi. Shortly after, Camozzi was forced to take a knee, prompting the referee to begin a ten-count.
In an unexpected turn of events, Camozzi could not recover, leading to the fight’s conclusion and marking the most significant win of Rodriguez’s bare-knuckle boxing career.
Official Result: Esteban Rodriguez defeated Chris Camozzi via knockout at 1:43 of Round 4 to become the interim BKFC cruiserweight champion.
Esteban Rodriguez vs. Chris Camozzi – BKFC 88 Highlights
English Translation:
Esteban Rodriguez delivered an exciting comeback against Chris Camozzi to capture the interim cruiserweight world title at BKFC 88.
Rodriguez started the fight with high intensity, aiming for a quick finish against the former UFC fighter. Unfortunately for Rodriguez, this approach resulted in significant fatigue as Camozzi took control of the contest in the second round.
Around the one-minute mark of the third round, the fight was momentarily stopped after Camozzi appeared to throw an illegal punch while holding Rodriguez in a headlock. It was later determined that the punch was legal. No point was deducted, and the fight resumed, with Camozzi winning the round on the judges’ scorecards.
Camozzi seemed to be in control, striking Rodriguez’s body with 30 seconds left in the third round. However, a glancing uppercut from Rodriguez caused Camozzi to stumble. Moments later, Camozzi took a knee, and the referee initiated the ten-count.
In an incredible turn of events, Camozzi was unable to continue, ending the bout and securing the biggest win of Rodriguez’s bare-knuckle career.
Official Result: Esteban Rodriguez def. Chris Camozzi via KO at 1:43 of Round 4 to win the interim BKFC cruiserweight championship.
