Rodriguez vs Lopez Prediction, Fight Preview, Live Stream, Odds and Picks
IBF Bantamweight Title Fight
Boxing odds have Emmanuel Rodriguez at -800 to win the IBF Bantamweight title on Saturday, in his bid to get back to glory.
Boxing odds tonight have Melvin Lopez at +500 to win, so the Mexican challenger isn’t being given much chance despite his impressive overall record.

The sportsbook could take plenty of action for Rodriguez at the price, so his odds could firm to around -1000 on fight night.
Rodriguez: Back to His Best
As boxing betting markets suggest, Rodriguez is back to his best after losing the title in 2019.
He suffered a defeat to quality Japanese star Naoya Inoue in the IBF title match, followed by another loss via split decision to Reymart Gaballo. It’s worth acknowledging his commendable effort in challenging Gaballo, who is a tough fight.
In 2017, he handled an opponent of moderate skill before securing a technical decision win against Gary Antonio Russell. This victory came about after an accidental headbutt caused an injury.
It’s important to note that Rodriguez was leading the fight at that moment, so it was another quality performance, and it’s why he’s the firm favorite to win the vacant title.
He didn’t mince his words about his prospects of facing Lopez.
“We’re coming to knock Melvin Lopez out,” said Rodriguez. “I believe that I will be dominating the fight by the sixth, seventh or eighth round. It’s going to be just a matter of time.
“Our goal is to drive him back because we know he has an aggressive style and reputation. We’re going to prevent that by fighting in the middle of the ring or pinning him against the ropes. If we have to adjust, I’m confident we’ll still be successful.”
Lopez Going for Gold
It could help Lopez to look past what online gambling markets are suggesting about his chances of beating Rodriguez.
His best chances are of landing an early blow, which could see his boxing live betting odds firm. However, landing a clean punch on Rodriguez’ chin is easier said than done.
The Nicaraguan fighter hasn’t shown five-star caliber fighting skills to date. His split decision win against Jobert Alvarez last year, a two-star fight, doesn’t stack up well.
His only notable performance at the elite level was against Jose Velasquez in 2019, competing for the WBO International bantamweight title. Unfortunately for Lopez, he suffered a TKO loss in the ninth round.
He’s only 25, so while this could work in his favor, it’s challenging to highlight positives when facing such a formidable opponent.
“I’m very excited that the time is almost here to fight for a world title,” said Lopez. “We’ve had a great training camp and everyone has sacrificed and worked hard so that we’re at our best on August 12.”
Rodriguez vs Lopez Head-to-Head
This is the first meeting between Rodriguez and Lopez.
Rodriguez vs Lopez Fight Information
- Fight: Rodriguez (21-2) vs Lopez (29-1)
- Location: MGM National Harbor, Oxon Hill, MD
- Day/Time: Saturday, August 12, 9 p.m. ET
- Rodriguez vs Lopez Live Stream: Box Live
Rodriguez vs Lopez Betting Lines
Rodriguez vs Lopez Picks and Prediction
Lopez might have more wins on paper, but as sport betting markets indicate, Rodriguez is by far the better fighter.
The -800 is a short price to take, but he’s worth including in boxing parlays this weekend.